blessed beyond a doubt affiliate disclosure2The TOP 10 Ways to Save at Restaurants! Do you agree?Being a large homeschool family, going out to eat costs our family an arm and a leg!  Literally!

It’s a rare occasion, but we try to be frugal while still enjoying our time out together.

Here are 10 Ways We Save at Restaurants!

  1. Drink Water – soft drinks are terribly expensive.  Ask for lemon or lime to spruce up your ice water. I always bring my peppermint oil.
  2. Skip Appetizers and Desserts – if you must eat a dessert then eat ice cream when you get home.  Chances are you won’t want the extra calories after all.
  3. Be Aware of the Restaurant Specials – always ask what the special is for that day.  It usually is always less expensive.
  4. Kids Eat Free – find out what days kids eat free at all your favorite restaurants.
  5. Bring a Coupon – check restaurant.com or go directly to the restaurants website or facebook page before deciding on where to dine.
  6. Combine Coupons and Daily Specials – for example if you have a kids eat free coupon then order the special for even more savings.
  7. Share a Meal – always ask your server ahead of time, some restaurants have stipulations.  Split a dessert if you are both still hungry.
  8. Avoid Tipping at times- go to a restaurant that serves quality food, such as, Chipotle’s, Panera Bread, or Quiznos where you order your food at the counter.  (Before you send me any hate mail, I strongly believe in tipping your server, but there are times as these that I don’t think it is necessary)
  9. Go out to lunch – lunch items are always less expensive than dinner entrees.
  10. Restaurant Budget – use the envelope system while spending only the cash that is available.  Once it’s gone, it’s gone.  Also, it will help you be more conscious of what you are ordering.

I hope some of these tips will help your family save while still experiencing an enjoyable dining experience.

What tips do you have to share with my readers?