Eating out can drain your wallet significantly, so you’ll want to do all you can to save. Here are some great ways to do just that! One way to save money is to have prepared meals at home. They’re easy to prepare and store and last a long time!

Split an Entree

If you and your dining companion have similar food preferences, it’s an intelligent strategy to order a variety of appetizers and sides before your entree. You’ll save a few bucks and likely eat less, too.

Another way to slash a restaurant bill is to split a main course with a friend. You’ll pay around $8 per dish for two, and with tax and tip, that works out to $10.

Depending on the meal, you may also be eligible for a discount based on your status. Children, seniors, students, and military members are all candidates for a cheaper meal.

The key is to do your homework before you go out and research the restaurant’s menu online. Early bird specials and happy hours, like the best happy hours deals in Breckenridge, often mean more affordable appetizers and side dishes, so take advantage of those before ordering.

Bringing the leftovers from my entree home helps me save money when I eat out. It’s not as much money as sharing with a friend, but it’s better than letting food go to waste.

Take Advantage of Early Bird Specials

Early bird specials are a great way to save money when eating out. They can save diners 10 to 50% off the regular menu price.

These discounts are available to customers who register for a specific event or order a product before a deadline. These offers can help planners drum up excitement for an event or a new product launch and boost registration.

While the early bird special is often associated with the elderly, it is also popular among families and young professionals looking to stretch their budgets. These offers can also provide diners with a great time out since they can get a great meal at a reduced cost.

In addition to helping consumers find a better deal, these discounts can also help restaurants increase revenue. Early bird specials are a great way for restaurants to encourage repeat business and can help build customer loyalty.

Order a Bottle of Wine

When dining out, wine can be pricey. Ask your server about the best wines on their list so that you can choose something within your budget.

If you need help deciding which wine to choose, consider purchasing a bottle rather than a glass. It will help you better understand what the wine tastes like and how it pairs with your meal.

You should also ask if you can taste the wine before you order it. It is beneficial if you need more clarification about the type of wine you like, and it can help you save money in the long run by making sure you don’t order a wine you won’t enjoy.

If you’re ordering a bottle of wine, be aware that there will be a significant markup on the price. A restaurant will usually mark up wine by about four times the actual cost of the bottle. It means that if you order a $50 bottle of wine, you’ll pay about $150 for it in a restaurant.

Skip the Dessert

Eating out is often a great way to spend time with friends, try new foods, and have a fun night out on the town. But it can also be a costly indulgence if you’re not careful.

One of the biggest hurdles to saving money is reducing restaurant visits and spending more on meals you prepare at home. Luckily, there are many ways to save without cutting corners on quality.

First, ensure you’re not ordering a dessert simply because it sounds good and looks good. It could mean a piece of cake or cookies, but it’s also the case with other things like ice cream and candy.

Another tip is to avoid alcoholic beverages altogether. It will save you lots of money on the pricey drinks and dubious “free refills” standard at restaurants.

Some restaurants offer special pricing for seniors, children, students, and military personnel. Look for these discounts online or ask a server if they’re available. What you discover may surprise you! You may be eligible for a deal that is more than you’d get on your bill otherwise.

Try Shareable Appetizers or Side Dishes

Appetizers and side dishes can be a great way to pad your meal without spending much money. They are filling and often taste better than they look!

Try a sampler platter or a few appetizers to share with your group. It’s a great way to try a wide variety of food, and you can save a ton of money by sharing.

Aside from being cheaper than entrees, appetizers are often an excellent option to order during happy hour since they’re typically sold for less than half price. You can also find deals through sites that offer discounts to local restaurants.

Aside from being a great way to save money, incorporating side dishes into your menu can be an effective strategy for keeping customers coming back. It can be an excellent opportunity to highlight your restaurant’s freshness and creativity while giving diners new options.