Savour the Savings: Tips to Make Eating Out More Affordable
Part 1 includes 6 tips for those who really like to eat out or pick up take-out
By Julie Jaggernath
There’s nothing better than a home-cooked meal, or is there? Visit a restaurant at dinner time and a room full of people might beg to differ. Dining out can be a delightful experience, offering a break from routine and a chance to try new flavours. However, whether you’re on a date, grabbing dinner with the kids, or enjoying a meal with friends, the cost of not regularly cooking at home can quickly add up.
It’s unrealistic for most of us to never pick up take-out or enjoy a meal away from our own kitchen. A better strategy is to include money for eating out in our budget. So, with a dash of planning and a sprinkle of savvy strategies, from appetizers and entrees to drinks, dessert, tip, and taxes, here is Part 1 of our list of 13 budget-conscious tips to make eating out more affordable.
Tip 1: Budget-Friendly Tips When Hitting the Drive-Thru
When you’re pressed for time and need a quick meal with the kids, heading to the drive-thru can be a smart choice to save both time and money. Instead of purchasing full meals for everyone, consider buying only the main items like burgers or chicken nuggets. Before you leave home, pack some healthy snacks like apples or carrot sticks to complement the fast food. This way, you’re providing a more balanced meal without the added cost of sides and drinks from the restaurant.
If you’re really in a rush and haven’t had a chance to pack any fruits or vegetables, bring along refillable water bottles to avoid buying expensive drinks. You can still grab the burgers or chicken nuggets for a convenient meal on the go, and later, when you have more time, enjoy a fresh salad at home to round out the day’s nutrition. This approach ensures your kids get a quick and satisfying meal, while also incorporating healthier options and staying within your budget.
Tip 2: Unlock Savings With Happy Hour
Before you head out for a meal, take a moment to check online if your favourite restaurant offers a happy hour. These special times, often during late afternoon or early evening, provide discounts on food and drinks. By browsing the happy hour menu available on the restaurant’s website, you can plan your visit when prices are reduced, making your dining experience more affordable.
Happy hour menus typically showcase the restaurant’s most popular items, so you might find your usual favourites at a lower price or discover new dishes worth trying. This strategy not only helps you save money but also enhances your dining experience by giving you the opportunity to enjoy a wider variety of meals and perhaps find a new favourite. By planning ahead and timing your visit, you can make the most out of your dining budget and relish delicious food without the full-price tag.
Tip 3: Seize Dining Deals + Kids Eat Free
Being strategic about taking advantage of specials can make a significant difference to your dining budget. Start by keeping a list of restaurants you enjoy and noting when they offer discounts on your favourite meals. This could include daily specials, weekly promotions, or limited time offers. By planning your visits around these discounted times, you can indulge in your preferred dishes without paying full price.
If you’re dining with children, it’s especially beneficial to seek out restaurants where kids can eat free. Many family-friendly places offer such deals on specific days or times, making it easier to enjoy a meal out without worrying about the cost of kids’ meals. Combining these offers with your planning ensures that dining out remains an affordable treat for the whole family.
Tip 4: Enjoy Restaurant Flavours at Home
If you’re craving a particular dish and don’t mind enjoying it in the comfort of your home, consider simplifying your take-out order by picking up just the main entrée. This approach allows you to enjoy the flavours you love without committing to a full take-out meal, saving both money and time. It can be particularly effective with cuisine from oriental-style restaurants, where you can easily prepare complementary dishes at home. For instance, you can put together a quick stir-fry with vegetables and rice in your own kitchen, and then enhance the meal by picking up favourites like sweet and sour pork, cashew chicken, or beef and broccoli from the restaurant. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a homemade, nutritious meal with the added delight of a restaurant-quality entrée. Not only does this method keep your dining costs down, but it also offers the convenience of enjoying a mixed and balanced meal without the hassle of cooking everything from scratch.
Tip 5: Score Sweet Savings With Dessert Outings
If your budget is tight and dining out for a full meal isn’t feasible, consider going out for dessert after having dinner at home. This allows you to enjoy the experience of dining out without the cost of an entire meal. By preparing a cost-effective and nutritious dinner at home, you can save money and then treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful dessert outing.
Whether it’s a shared slice of rich cheesecake, a decadent chocolate sundae, or a warm apple pie, dessert outings can provide a satisfying experience and create wonderful memories. Plus, this approach allows you to manage your budget while still indulging in the occasional treat, striking a balance between frugality and enjoying life’s little luxuries.
Tip 6: Maximize Savings With Coupons and Online Discounts
Make the most of your dining experience by leveraging coupons and online discounts. Whether you’re eager to try a new restaurant or frequent a local favourite, keeping an eye out for deals can significantly reduce your dining expenses. Many restaurants offer promotional discounts through their websites, social media pages, or email newsletters, so it’s worthwhile to subscribe or follow them online. Additionally, websites and apps dedicated to restaurant deals can help you find offers you might otherwise miss. These discounts can range from percentage-off deals to buy-one-get-one-free offers, making it easy to enjoy a meal out without straining your budget. Even new eateries or local hotspots testing out new menu items often roll out special promotions to attract customers, providing a perfect opportunity to try something new at a lower cost. By staying alert and making use of these available discounts, you can enjoy dining out more frequently while keeping your spending in check.
Help With Your Budget When Planning for Eating Out
If you’re struggling to figure out how to make eating out and take-out expenses part of your budget, we’re happy to help! Our credit counsellors are experts at making suggestions for how best to deal with your expenses and reach your goals. Part 2 of our tip list for saving while eating out might give you some more ideas as well. Bon appétit!
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