Being a traditional housewife, my mum has always been a strong advocate of cooking and dining at home, since dining out is usually a more expensive option. In the past, we only dine out on special occasions. This is hardly the case now. In modern days, the cost of dining out has become relatively affordable, bringing about more convenience and choices for our taste bud as well.

Careful planning and ordering tactics would allow you to enjoy dining out without straining your financial situation. Contrary to what many may think, you do not need to spend a fortune on meals added over time.

1.) Location:-

A specialty restaurant would probably be more pricey than a chain of food restaurants. Fast-food outlets would be comparatively cheaper, however watch your health when eating too much junk food. Food courts or coffee-shops are also good venues for a munch.

Look out for new food establishments. The food market is a monopolistic competitive, and these are the ones that would most probably be offering discounts to entice potential customers. Act curious, interested and walk in for a try.

If you can, eat at places near your home. You would save on car petrol or public transportation costs.

2.) Advertisements:-

You might have skipped these when you read newspapers or magazines. Some food outlets do advertise with special offers, food discounts, and dining coupons. Leaflets or mailings sometimes have deals for the whole family or a minimum group size for patrons.

Food magazines not only inform you of what good food is available, but where to get the most value for your dollars. It pays sometimes to take the initiative to look out for those.

3.) Timings:-

Meals might sometimes be cheaper during the weekdays compared to the weekends even though the quality and amount served are the same. Lunch sets often feature a smaller price but smaller portion as compared to dinner sets. It sometimes pay to go for the odd hours. Some food establishment do have different pricing for early morning and late afternoon when there is no crowd.

Special days. Take note of special events or occasions where group of 5 can dine for the price of 4 or the likes of it. My local restaurant has Sunday as a family day where each child dines for free with each paying adult accompanying. Some even have 'happy hours' with accompanying offers.

4.) During the meal:-

Drinks. Water is the cheapest drink available, costing nothing at most food establishments. The next best alternatives are soft drinks, or

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

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