25 Strategies Thrifty Individuals Use to Cut Costs While Eating Out

Dining out does not have to drain your wallet. With a few smart moves, you can savor great meals and still keep cash in your pocket. These are practical strategies you can start using tonight, without sacrificing taste or fun. Ready to turn every restaurant visit into a small win for your budget?

1. Scan menus online before you go

Peek at the menu online before heading out so you are not surprised by prices. You will spot value dishes, lunch portions, and any weekday specials that fit your budget. This simple step sets a spending plan without feeling restrictive.

Compare a couple of nearby spots and bookmark the best options. When you arrive, you will already know what to order and what to skip. Fewer impulse choices mean fewer regrets and more money left for dessert or tomorrow.

2. Go during happy hour

Happy hour is not just for drinks. Many places discount appetizers and small plates, which can become a full meal if you choose wisely. Split a few shareable bites and pair them with water or one low cost beverage.

Arrive early to snag the best deals and avoid crowds. Ask staff which items are included and confirm timing. You will enjoy the same flavors and atmosphere while paying a fraction of dinner prices.

3. Share large entrees

Many restaurants serve portions big enough for two. Split a large entree and add a side salad to balance the meal without doubling the cost. This trims calories and waste while stretching your dollars.

Ask for extra plates and be clear you are sharing. Most places are happy to accommodate. If there is a splitting fee, compare whether ordering two small plates is cheaper. Either way, you will likely still spend less than buying two full entrees.

4. Order water confidently

Skip pricey sodas, cocktails, and refills by choosing water. A lemon wedge makes it feel fresh and satisfying, and you are not paying restaurant markups on beverages. Hydration is free and your bill stays lean.

If you want flavor, ask for sparkling water only if it is complimentary. Otherwise bring a flavored electrolyte packet and use discreetly if appropriate. You will notice how quickly drink costs add up when you remove them and see instant savings.

5. Leverage weekday specials

Restaurants often run weekday promotions to fill seats. Think taco Tuesday, pasta night, or kids eat free on Mondays. Planning your dining around these offers secures the same experience for less.

Follow your favorite spots on social media for announcements and fine print. Call ahead to confirm hours and eligibility. You will reduce your bill simply by shifting your schedule a day or two, which adds up fast across a month of meals.

6. Use loyalty apps and rewards

Download loyalty apps for places you visit often. Points build toward free food, birthday treats, and member only discounts. Stack those rewards with in app coupons for serious savings.

Turn on notifications so you catch limited time codes. Use a separate email if you prefer fewer messages. When you combine loyalty points with happy hour or weekday deals, you can cut costs without compromising on what you crave.

7. Dine at lunch instead of dinner

Lunch menus often mirror dinner flavors with lower prices and lighter portions. You get the same chef and quality with less financial commitment. It is an easy way to sample pricier spots without overspending.

Plan meetups midday when possible and ask about lunch combos. Add a side instead of another entree if still hungry. Your budget benefits, and you will likely avoid the evening rush too.

8. Split appetizers as a meal

Appetizers can be delicious and cost effective when combined. Choose two or three different textures and cuisines to feel satisfied. You will enjoy variety without paying premium entree prices.

Verify portion sizes with the server, then balance something hearty with something fresh. Share everything so bites go further. This approach is perfect before a show or during happy hour, when small plate pricing shines even more.

9. Skip extras and add ons

Add ons like avocado, bacon, or fancy sauces can silently inflate your bill. Decide what truly matters for flavor and skip the rest. The base dish is usually satisfying without upgrades.

Ask the server which inclusions come standard. If you really want something, pick one premium add on rather than several. You will keep costs predictable and avoid that surprise at checkout.

10. Use coupons and discount codes

Before leaving home, search for coupons on the restaurant website, local deal sites, or newsletters. Many spots offer first time signup discounts or rotating promo codes. It only takes a minute and can cover tax or a side.

Read the fine print for exclusions and minimum spend. Screenshot everything in case reception is spotty. You will feel extra satisfied when that total drops at payment.

11. Bring a leftovers plan

Order with tomorrow in mind. If portions are large, plan to take half home and enjoy a second meal. You are effectively getting two for one without paying more.

Ask for a box early to avoid picking mindlessly. At home, add greens or grains to stretch leftovers into lunch. Reducing waste saves money and makes dining out feel smarter.

12. Opt for counter service spots

Counter service restaurants often have lower prices due to reduced labor costs. You still get fresh, tasty meals without a full service surcharge. Tips can be simpler too, further trimming the bill.

Look for customizable bowls, salads, and sandwiches. Share sides and skip drinks for extra savings. You will enjoy speed, flexibility, and value all at once.

13. Ask about off menu value items

Some kitchens offer simple, affordable plates not printed on the menu. Think a plain grilled chicken, basic pasta, or veggie plate. Asking politely can reveal hidden bargains.

Be respectful and flexible, since availability varies. If they can do it, you get a satisfying meal tailored to budget and taste. You will feel like an insider who knows the smart order.

14. Choose no tip needed situations appropriately

In some settings, tipping expectations are lower, like grab and go counters. When service is minimal, you can tip modestly without guilt. That savings adds up across multiple visits.

Follow local customs and always be courteous. If staff goes above and beyond, tip accordingly. The goal is to align tipping with service level while honoring people’s work.

15. Use gift cards bought on discount

Buy restaurant gift cards at a discount from warehouse clubs or reputable resellers. A 10 to 20 percent savings upfront is real money. Combine the card with in house specials for a double win.

Track balances and expiration dates to avoid waste. Keep screenshots of card numbers for easy redemption. You will walk into dinner already ahead of the bill.

16. Split dessert or skip it

Desserts are tempting and often pricey. Share one treat so you get the flavor without doubling the cost. If you are full, skip dessert and grab a sweet at home later.

Ask about portion size and consider fruit forward options for balance. Choosing mindfully turns dessert into a special moment rather than a routine expense. Your wallet will notice the difference.

17. Check portion size cues

Look for clues like “family size,” “giant,” or “signature” that hint at oversized dishes. Big plates are perfect for sharing or saving half for later. You pay once and enjoy multiple meals.

Ask the server if a half portion is available. If not, split or box early. Awareness turns portions into strategy, not waste.

18. Skip premium seating fees

Some venues charge more for patio, rooftop, or event night seating. Choose standard tables to avoid those surcharges. The food tastes the same without the upcharge.

If ambiance matters, go during non peak times when fees are waived. Ask politely about any added costs before being seated. You will protect your budget without losing the experience.

19. Use social media for flash deals

Restaurants post flash deals on stories and reels to drive traffic. Limited time codes, freebies, or buy one get one offers pop up unexpectedly. Following your favorites pays off quickly.

Turn on alerts for a few key accounts. Screenshot codes and note end times. You will catch opportunities others miss and score tasty bargains.

20. Eat before you go a little

Have a small snack before dining out to curb hunger. You will order thoughtfully instead of impulsively. A piece of fruit or handful of nuts can save you from adding a pricey extra entree.

This trick helps when meeting late or waiting for friends. You feel steady, make clearer choices, and waste less food. Savings follow naturally.

21. Ask for free bread or sides policy

Complimentary bread or chips can vary by restaurant and region. Ask politely whether it is included or extra. Free sides can round out a meal so you do not need another dish.

Confirm refills and any automatic charges. Use what is offered but avoid waste. Understanding the policy prevents surprise fees and helps you plan portions wisely.

22. Split a combo strategically

Combos pack multiple items at a lower price than ordering separately. Share a sandwich and divide the sides, making a balanced meal for two. You will leave satisfied without paying for duplicate mains.

Check whether the combo is customizable to swap a pricier side for a better value. Add a cup of soup if needed. Smart splitting turns deals into real savings.

23. Time visits near closing wisely

Some bakeries and cafes discount items near closing to clear inventory. Swing by during the last hour for marked down pastries, salads, or hot items. Fresh enough for dinner, perfect for value.

Call ahead to confirm policies and selection. Be respectful of staff as they wrap up. You can score quality food at a gentle price.

24. Use cash back and dining portals

Activate cash back in your card app or use dining portals that track participating restaurants. Combining portal rewards with card bonuses turns every meal into points or cash. It feels like an instant rebate.

Read terms to ensure the offer stacks and is linked to your card. Submit receipts if required. Over a month, the returns are noticeable.

25. Choose BYOB when possible

BYOB restaurants let you bring your own beverages, saving on alcohol markups. Check corkage fees and compare costs. Often you can drink a better bottle for less than one glass elsewhere.

Call ahead to confirm rules and bring an opener if needed. Share a bottle with friends to maximize value. You get celebration vibes without the inflated bill.