How to Dine Out for Less Money

Consumers have seen a big jump in grocery prices at the food market. Some blame the price jump on a combination of inflation and surging oil prices that been added to shipping cost of the food.The end result might be increasing your attendance at restaurants. But they also have increased their prices, as restaurant owners are facing the same rising grocery prices. Their biggest fear is raising prices too much at the risk of losing customers. To counterbalance the rising costs, restaurants are offering more promotions to tempt customers into an evening out in their establishment. Savvy customers can easily trim their dining out bill by using these tips:

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• newspaper subscription
• scissors
• computer
• internet service

How to Dine Out for Less Money

1. Plan ahead by booking your table reservation through an agency that redeems your business with reward points that can be traded in for gift certificates.
2. Sign up for restaurant email lists and reward programs, which offer exclusive coupons. Some reward programs will net you points per dollar spent, which can be traded in for gift certificates once you hit certain points level during the year.
3. Scan your local Sunday newspaper, free Penny-Saver publication, or coupon packs in your mailbox for coupons to your favorite restaurants. Some consumer advocates also recommend purchasing the Entertainment Book, a regional coupon book. Using it once or twice will recoup your cost.
4. More credit card companies are offering dining rewards as another incentive to use their card. Make sure you read the fine print of your agreement, as credit companies will only offer money-back rewards for fast food or quick service restaurants.
5. Take note of discount night at restaurants. These promotional specials can easily cut your bill by at least 50 percent. Drive through your neighborhood and pay attention to the signage outside of the restaurants. Then, plan your week accordingly to the discounts provided by your favorite eatery.
6. You can save up to 50 percent by purchasing gift certificates online. Some restaurants offer a $25 gift certificate for only $10. But there is a catch, you might have some restrictions such as certain nights the certificate can be used or the number of diners allowed on the certificate. Read before buying.