by Katherine Huether

Created on: October 15, 2009   Last Updated: July 07, 2011

Are you looking to save money when you go out to eat? Instead of not dining out all together, why not try implementing these five tips on saving at restaurants? They will help keep the price down and get you to enjoy your meal at a more economical price. Remember that restaurants are in the business of getting you to spend the most money that you can. If you know which traps to look out for, you can avoid them and save some serious cash.

Strategy 1 - Read the Menu Carefully

The first place that restaurants try to get you to spend money is with the menu. Some small, family-owned places may not give the menu much thought. You know the places - the menu is printed out on the computer in plain paper and covered with a clear covering. You probably won't need to worry about falling into the "menu trap" at those restaurants.

However, there are some restaurants who take their menu very seriously and you can fall into traps even at chain restaurants. The menu is a form of advertising to them because they help advertise the food. The better the food looks, either through the descriptions or the pictures, the more you'll spend on the food. In fact, some restaurants pay companies top dollar to create a menu (layout and menu items included) that is designed to maximize their profits.

A good strategy is to skim the menu and then close it. Spend some time thinking about what you really want to eat and assessing your hunger level. Be realistic about your appetite and choose what you really want to eat. If you think about your personal preferences, you are less likely to be taken in by the flashy advertising.

Strategy 2 - Beware of Extra, Hidden Costs

Another thing you can do to help save money is to beware of the extra items, which can really add up. The first place restaurants try to get your money is with your beverage order. They come right up to you, ask you what you want, and bring it over while you're still perusing the menu. Beverages can get expensive - especially if you order alcohol. But sometimes you can avoid the extra cost for a drink altogether by getting water first.

Appetizers are another extra that sometimes aren't necessary. How many times have you ordered an appetizer without thinking and ate the whole thing, then you weren't even hungry for a meal? If you're really hungry, it's better to have a small piece of bread and wait for your meal. The same goes for dessert. Only order it if you really want it.

Strategy 3 - Tip with Class and Economy

Assessing your

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