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It seems during the face of a failing economy and the rapidly rising cost of commodities, most Americans have begun to look for ways to shave money off the household budget. Only those expenditures included in the budget that are not set monthly fees can be adjusted. Therefore, one of the first places Americans are reducing the household budget is on food, both at the grocery store and dining out.

Money allotted to dining out is being hardest hit since it is not an essential necessity. Also coming into play is the rapid rising cost of grocery items at the stores. One must drastically reduce the list of purchases in order to just maintain the same grocery budget. This does not mean, however, that we must entirely give up dining out. There are a great many ways in which to save money while dining out. Listed below are several tips to help reduce the cost.

REDUCE THE WEEKLY OCCASIONS

Many American households have grown accustomed to dining out two or three times per week or more. Dining out or taking food home as we return from daily activities is convenient but unnecessary and not healthy.

Dining out becomes less enjoyable when it becomes a frequent habit. Evening meals served in American restaurants often are served in quantities that should equal two to three meals. Most of the restaurants serving super portions will provide take out trays but the food never tastes as good reheated as it did at the restaurant. Though we take the leftover food home, most or all of it ends up in the garbage can. Heavily laden plates have led to obesity and consequent medical problems, as well.

Reduce the number of occasions you or family dine out to once per week or less. It will save money and trim inches off the waistline at the same time. As an added benefit, the privelege of dining out is no longer taken for granted and the experience becomes more enjoyable again.

DINE OUT AT LUNCH

Lunch prices are always less expensive for the same menu item than evening meal prices. Lunch plates, though smaller, are usually served in a portion appropriate for the evening meal. This reduces calories, wasted food, and the cost of dining out. You will not leave the restaurant hungry.

When possible, save the weekly visit to a restaurant for a day you, both spouses, or the entire family can dine out at lunch.

BUFFET DINING

Another advantage to dining out at lunch is most restaurants offer a lunch buffet at a lower cost than ordering a plate off the menu. Buffet dining is usually available until 2:00 P.M.

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