How to Save Money at a Restaurant

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By missforty
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (16 Ratings)

Even with a slow economy, you can still enjoy the pleasure of eating out at a restaurant. Here's how to save money at a restaurant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Restaurant
Cash
Coupons
Powdered drink mix

Step 1

Obtain discount coupons for the restaurant before you go. Only go to restaurants for which you have coupons. Coupons sometimes come in the mail as part of a coupon package or can be found in the local Sunday newspaper. Restaurant coupons are also available on-line and can be printed out.
Step 2

When reading the menu and deciding what to order, keep in mind that extras account for a large part of your final bill. These extras include appetizers, soft drinks, iced tea, salads and desserts. Soft drinks and iced tea can cost $2.00 or more per glass. You could just drink plain water, but since you are going out to enjoy yourself there is a way to add flavor. Bring a drink mix packet with you and stir it into your water. Many drink mix packets like vitamin water are clear in color but have a wonderful flavor.
Step 3

Split an entree with your dining partner. If this is not possible, ask for a half order or a lunch portion. Even though it is not on the menu, the restaurant often has this option available. If you do order a salad, split it with your dining partners as salad portions are often very large.
Step 4

Be sure to tip your waiter the full amount which is 15-20 percent of the bill, as you should not scrimp on their tip just to save money. If you do split an entree, still tip the waiter the amount it would have been had you ordered entrees for each person.
Step 5

If you are celebrating a special occasion, be sure to inquire if there is a free dessert available. If not, you could split one dessert between multiple people or ask for the child's dessert menu which will almost always include plain ice cream. For another inexpensive dessert, ask if they have any berries or fresh fruit that they could put in a bowl and put whipped cream on top.
Step 6

Treat the waiters with respect and do not short-change them on their tips which is their income. When you return the next time, they will be more than happy to accommodate your money saving efforts and work with you to make special desserts or half-size portions.