She Strengthens

Savoring the Flavor of Savings: 13 Ways to Dine Out on a Budget

As someone who’s been there, done that, and got the t-shirt, I can attest that dining out while paying off debt can be a daunting task. My husband, Travis, and I used to struggle with balancing our love for trying new restaurants with our tight budget. However, we’ve since discovered that with a little planning and creativity, we can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.

Mystery Shopping: The Ultimate Freebie

One of our favorite ways to indulge in a nice dinner is through mystery shopping. This clever trick allows us to enjoy a complimentary meal while getting reimbursed for our expenses. It’s a win-win! If you’re interested in becoming a successful mystery shopper, I’ve got some valuable tips to share.

Discounted Delights

Beyond mystery shopping, there are several websites that offer incredible deals on restaurant gift certificates. Restaurant.com, for instance, offers $25 gift certificates for just $10, with a minimum spend requirement. Groupon and Living Social also provide similar discounts, often with no minimum purchase required. Creative Loafing, on the other hand, focuses on local businesses and offers half-off deals with transparent pricing.

Gift Cards Galore

If you’re looking for even more flexibility, consider purchasing discounted gift cards. These can be used at any time, with no restrictions, and never expire. Websites like Gift Card Granny make it easy to find the perfect gift card for your favorite restaurant.

Stay in the Loop

Signing up for your favorite restaurant’s email newsletter can also yield some tasty rewards. You’ll often receive an initial discount, a freebie on your birthday, and notifications about upcoming promotions. Just be sure to use a service like Unroll.me to keep your inbox organized.

Social Media Savvy

Following your favorite restaurants on social media can also lead to exclusive deals and promotions. Many businesses love to offer special discounts to their followers, so don’t be shy about hitting that “follow” button.

Online Coupons and More

Before heading to a big chain restaurant, take a minute to search for online coupons. Most places accept mobile coupons, but be sure to read the fine print. And if you’re looking for an affordable meal, consider doing brunch or lunch instead of dinner – the prices are often significantly lower.

Appetizers and Leftovers

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider ordering an appetizer as your main course. Many restaurants offer generous portions that can easily be shared or taken home for later. Speaking of leftovers, ask for a box early and portion out your meal for the next day – it’s a great way to avoid overeating and save money.

Skip the Booze

Finally, skipping the alcohol can make a significant dent in your bill. The markup on drinks in restaurants is often astronomical, so consider enjoying a cocktail at home instead. You’ll be surprised at how much you can save!

By implementing these 13 strategies, Travis and I have been able to enjoy dining out while paying off our debt. It’s all about finding ways to make the journey sustainable and enjoyable. So, do you have any favorite tricks for stretching your restaurant budget? Share them with us in the comments!