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Dine Like a King, Pay Like a Peasant: The Best Ways to Save Money at Restaurants!

Catherine McDiarmid-Watt | Wednesday, February 05, 2025 | 126 comments

Image: Dine Like a King, Pay Like a Peasant: The Best Ways to Save Money at Restaurants

We all love eating out, but let’s be honest—restaurant bills can drain your wallet faster than you can say "Would you like dessert?" 

But fear not, fellow foodies! 

With a few sneaky tricks, you can enjoy your favorite meals without breaking the bank. 

Let’s dig into the best ways to save big while eating out!

1. Sign Up for Rewards & Loyalty Programs

Most restaurants offer free perks just for signing up! Think: discounts, free appetizers, or even a birthday dessert (because calories don’t count on your birthday).

2. Ditch the Drinks

Want to cut your bill in half? Skip the sodas, fancy lattes, and cocktails. Water is free, refreshing, and won’t wreck your budget!

3. Go During Happy Hour

The best time to eat out? When restaurants are practically throwing discounts at you! Happy hour often means half-price appetizers and drinks—so you can feast for less.

4. Split an Entree (or Take Home Leftovers!)

Most restaurants serve portions fit for a small army. Share an entree with a friend or take half home for tomorrow’s lunch—two meals for the price of one!

5. Order Appetizers Instead of a Main Course

Who says you have to order an expensive entree? A couple of appetizers can be just as filling and way cheaper than a full meal.

6. Check for Coupons & Deals

Before you head out, do a quick search for restaurant coupons, BOGO deals, or discounts on apps like Groupon. You’d be surprised how much you can save!

7. Go for Lunch Instead of Dinner

Lunch menus are usually much cheaper than dinner options, but the portions are still great. Why pay $20 for pasta when you can get the same dish for $10 at lunch?

8. Join Birthday Freebie Clubs

Many restaurants offer free meals, desserts, or drinks during your birthday month. Make a list of participating places, and treat yourself to multiple free feasts!

9. Take Advantage of Kids Eat Free Nights

Got little ones? Many restaurants offer “Kids Eat Free” nights, which means a free meal for them and extra savings for you.

10. Be Smart About Tipping

We’re not saying don’t tip (always tip your servers!), but if you're on a budget, avoid places with automatic gratuities or expensive service charges.

💡 Final Thoughts: Eating out doesn’t have to drain your bank account! With a little planning and a few smart choices, you can enjoy amazing restaurant meals without feeling the financial burn. 

Bon appétit!

Image: Purchase a $100 Restaurant.com Dining Credit and get a Free $100 Dining Credit + Free $40 Rosefarmers.com voucher!

 💝 Valentine's Day Special! 💝

Purchase a $100 Restaurant.com Dining Credit and get a Free $100 Dining Credit + Free $40 Rosefarmers.com voucher! 

That's $200 in Restaurant.com Dining Credits for just $16.77!





Category: ,

Catherine

About Catherine: I have been writing frugal tips since 1982, when I was a young divorced mom of two - for my baby product company, Born to Love. I am now mom to three sons, who are all grown up - and re-married to a wonderful man. We have rescued two little dogs, Denny and Dexter - and Bella, the cat.

Questions? Email me at catherine (at) frugal-freebies.com or post to my Facebook Fan Page!

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126 comments

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    November 14, 2011 at 1:02 PM

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