How to Save Money While Eating Out: 8 Insider Tips

Eating out is one of life’s great pleasures—delicious food, zero dishes, and a chance to unwind. But let’s be real: it can also be a total money pit. Between sneaky restaurant markups, overpriced drinks, and the temptation to add just one more appetizer, it’s easy to walk away with a bill that makes you question your life choices.

But don’t worry! You don’t have to choose between enjoying a good meal and keeping your bank account happy. Whether you’re a foodie on a budget, someone who eats out multiple times a week, or just looking for ways to cut down on expenses, there are plenty of ways to dine out for less. You just have to know the insider tricks—things restaurants don’t want you to know.

Here are eight expert tips to help you eat out like a pro while keeping more money in your pocket. Let’s dig in!

1. Take Advantage of Happy Hour Deals

Happy hour isn’t just for cheap drinks—it’s also a goldmine for discounted food. Many restaurants offer small plates, appetizers, or even full meals at significantly lower prices during these hours.

Happy hour typically runs between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, and some places even offer a late-night happy hour if you’re more of a night owl. If you can be a little flexible with your mealtime, you can enjoy restaurant-quality food at a fraction of the regular cost.

Pro Tip:

• Check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to ask about their happy hour specials.

• Some places even offer discounted sushi, tacos, or burgers—so if you’re craving something specific, plan your visit accordingly.

• Pair your happy hour food with a discounted drink for maximum savings.

2. Look for Daily Specials and Promotions

Ever noticed that some restaurants offer “Taco Tuesday” deals or “Wing Wednesdays”? That’s because they know customers love a good discount. Daily specials are one of the best ways to eat out for less without sacrificing quality.

Some restaurants even offer “Kids Eat Free” nights or all-you-can-eat deals on specific days. It’s just a matter of knowing when to go.

Pro Tip:

• Follow your favorite restaurants on social media or sign up for their email newsletters. They often post deals and discounts that aren’t advertised elsewhere.

• Ask your server if the restaurant has any unadvertised specials—sometimes, there are secret deals for those who ask.

3. Skip the Extras (Drinks, Apps, and Desserts)

Restaurants love when you order drinks, appetizers, and desserts because that’s where they make the biggest profit. A single cocktail that costs them $2 to make? They’ll charge you $15 for it. That chocolate lava cake that looks so tempting? It’s marked up 500%.

If you’re serious about saving money, focus on the main course and skip the extras.

Pro Tip:

• If you must have a drink, consider pre-gaming at home where alcohol is much cheaper.

• If you’re craving dessert, stop by a bakery on the way home or make something simple yourself—it’ll taste just as good and cost a fraction of the price.

4. Split an Entrée or Order from the Kids’ Menu

Portion sizes at restaurants can be ridiculously large. Instead of stuffing yourself or wasting food, consider sharing an entrée with a friend or family member. Many restaurants will even split the dish onto two plates for you.

Another hack? Check out the kids’ menu. Some restaurants allow adults to order kid-sized portions, which are usually just as filling but cost significantly less.

Pro Tip:

• If splitting isn’t an option, ask for a to-go box right away and save half your meal for later. Boom—two meals for the price of one!

5. Use Discounted Gift Cards and Coupons

Did you know you can buy restaurant gift cards for less than their face value? Websites like Raise.com and Gift Card Granny sell discounted gift cards for restaurants, meaning you can pay $20 for a $25 gift card and save instantly.

You can also find restaurant coupons on Groupon, LivingSocial, and even local newspaper inserts. It’s an easy way to shave a few bucks off your meal.

Pro Tip:

• Always check for coupons or promotions before dining out. A quick Google search of "[restaurant name] coupon" can sometimes reveal hidden deals.

• Some credit cards offer cashback for dining out—check your card’s perks!

6. Join Loyalty Programs and Rewards Apps

Many chain restaurants offer loyalty programs where you earn points for every dollar spent. These points can add up to free meals, discounts, or even birthday freebies.

Popular chains like Starbucks, Chipotle, and Chick-fil-A have excellent rewards programs that can lead to big savings over time.

Pro Tip:

• Even if you don’t eat out often, sign up for these programs anyway—you never know when you’ll score a free meal!

• Some restaurants give you a freebie just for signing up—so take advantage of that!

7. Go for Lunch Instead of Dinner

Lunch menus tend to be significantly cheaper than dinner menus, even for the same dishes. If you have the flexibility, opt for a lunch outing instead of dinner. You’ll get the same restaurant experience for a fraction of the price.

Some high-end restaurants even offer prix fixe lunch menus, which allow you to try their food for much less than you’d pay at dinnertime.

Pro Tip:

• Check if the restaurant offers lunch specials or combo meals that aren’t available at dinner.

8. Drink Water Instead of Soda or Alcohol

Ordering a soda or cocktail can easily add $5-$15 to your bill per person. Instead, opt for good old-fashioned water—it’s free, healthier, and won’t add unnecessary costs to your meal.

If you really want a drink, consider having one at home before heading out.

Pro Tip:

• Some restaurants charge for bottled water but offer tap water for free—make sure you ask!

• If you must order a drink, look for happy hour specials or ask about any discounted house drinks.

Dining out doesn’t have to break the bank. By being a little strategic—like taking advantage of happy hour deals, skipping overpriced drinks, and using coupons—you can enjoy restaurant meals without blowing your budget.

Next time you head out to eat, keep these tips in mind. Your stomach will be full, your wallet will be happy, and you won’t have to feel guilty about treating yourself. Now go forth and dine smart!