5 Tips To Eat Out For Less

Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive. The system is rigged to poke and prod you into spending money that you don’t need to spend. But, fear not; there are a few little tricks that can save you some cash at your favorite restaurant without taking the fun out of eating out.

None of these things are particularly unknown, but they may not come to mind when eating out so it’s always good to think about them a little bit:

1. Stay Away From Add-On Sides

Restaurants are eager to throw in an extra side, a salad, or a cup or bowl of soup. While these things are okay, they’re usually unnecessary in America because our portion sizes are large enough to fill almost anyone’s appetite. Fast Food chains in particular are notorious for upsizing and combo convincing. Aside from the negative health effects, the financial effect of adding fries and a drink can (sometimes) double the cost of your food. 

2. Skip The Drinks

Drinks at restaurants are expensive. A coke can sometimes add $2.50 to your bill and if everyone at the table gets one, you could be looking at another entrée. Aside from the added expense, soft drinks also increase your appetite and make you feel hungrier than you really are - likely the reason why nearly everywhere in America you can get free refills. 

3. Buy Giftcards

Normally, gift cards aren’t among the soundest of investments. But, given the sagging sales at food chains nationwide, their marketing departments have jumped into action with bonus card offers that can actually net you a profit (sort of) on eating out. Many restaurants are now offering deals where if you purchase a gift card for $25 or $50, you’re eligible to receive another $5 or $10 free of charge. Of course, this option is only advantageous if you’re planning to go to one of these places anyway but, if you are, why not earn a little extra for eating there?

4. Tip Accordingly

I’ve always been a little confused about the rules around tipping. The way I see it, you shouldn’t just tip based on a percentage - even if that percentage is rather high. Sometimes you’re not that hungry and you only order an appetizer and water; the check comes out to $8.39 and 20% of that is $1.68. Did the waiter only do $1.68 worth of work? Or was he or she friendly and attentive? Likewise, if you get an appetizer, steak, and dessert and the check comes out to $60, did the waiter really do $12 worth of work? Tipping based on percentages is strange; it often amounts to too much or too little. Instead, tip based on the quality of service and the atmosphere of the restaurant. Friendly and attentive waiters deserve more money no matter what you ordered.

5. Sign-Up For E-Mail Alerts

I hate getting pointless marketing e-mails as much as the next person but, in light of the economy, restaurants have stepped up their efforts to send out coupons and special offers. It’s not rare to receive a coupon for a free appetizer, $5 or $10 off, and other goodies to entice customers. Sure, these e-mails are annoying, but is the tiny annoyance worth free food at your favorite restaurant?