Dining out has always been an easy and enjoyable way to eat a good meal without the hassles of shopping and cooking. But these days, with the rising fuel prices, it is getting increasingly difficult to fit sizable restaurant bills into our budgets.

It is not impossible, however, to have a fantastic dining experience without denting your finances too much. Here are some simple and sensible ways to save money dining out:

1. Order water. If you are not picky about what you like to drink with your meal, opt for water. It is always free, as opposed to fountain drinks which can be easily over two dollars each. If you insist on having a certain fountain drink, make sure they offer free refills. Some restaurants have their servers continually bring you refills, even if you do not ask, which can get costly.

2. Go during happy hour. If you plan to order alcohol with your meal, try to go during happy hour for the best deals, and ask your server about any additional drink specials going on.

3. Skip the appetizer, aim for the bread. How many times have you filled up on your Bloomin' Onion (Outback Steakhouse) and could not finish your entree? It is common, and unnecessary. Appetizers can cost about the same price as a small entree, so ordering one is like adding another guest onto your bill. Your entree should be enough to fill you up. If not, add on a small side salad or cup of soup. Plus, many restaurants offer a complimentary small loaf of bread or a basket of dinner rolls. Fill your stomach for no extra cost.

4. Cut coupons. Many restaurants circulate coupons out on a regular basis, so hold onto any that appeal to you, at least until they expire. Even a "save $5 on $30" coupon will make a difference.

5. If you have kids, look for restaurants that offer "kids eat free" night. I once worked at a restaurant where every kid under twelve years old ate for free (when accompanied by a paying adult, of course). But there were people who would come in every single Tuesday because it was such a great deal.

6. Look for smaller portions. Many menus have sections will smaller portions of their regular dishes. A great example of this is T.G.I. Friday's' Right Portion, Right Price menu.

7. Avoid upgrades. Servers are salespeople, and they are trained to get you to buy as much food as possible. If you order a steak, for example, a server will ask "how would you like it cooked?" and then cleverly add "all, right, and would you like to add sauteed mushrooms or onions?" There's nothing wrong with saying yes, but more often than not, these little upgrades add dollars onto your bill.

The one place where you should NEVER be cheap is on the tip. Even if the food is awful or the atmosphere is irritating, do not take it out on your server. Some servers get paid minimum wage, but others get paid around three dollars an hour. They DEPEND on tips, so do not be stingy. Plus, your server is only human. If they accidentally forget to bring you something, or you have to ask them more than once, or they spilled something minor, do not take it out on them. Everyone makes mistakes. If they are extremely rude and give you outstandingly poor service, that is another story.

Dining out does not have to hurt your finances. Stick to these general guidelines for an affordable family dining experience that your budget will barely notice.

Learn more about this author, Megan Deroche.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Money-saving tips: How to save money dining out?
We want to hear your view. Write now!