Even as the prices of everything seem to be rising, going out to eat is still a significant part of modern living.

There are many reasons to eat somewhere, whether it’s convenience, socializing, or just taking a break from the kitchen for once.

Eating out can seem challenging if you’re trying to control your spending. But that doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself. It’s all about recognizing your spending limits and getting creative with them.

Here is some quick advice to help you get the most out of your next outing. Following some of these strategies will help keep your takeout budget in check.

Make It an Occasion, Not a Routine

It is reasonable to think that going out to eat is counterintuitive, especially if you’re being mindful of your budget. For many, ordering takeout and going to restaurants are the first expenses that face cuts.

Try reframing your mindset about going to restaurants. Maybe routine visits to a café or a fast-food joint during lunch breaks dull the luster of these activities. Instead, think of eating out as a reward or treat best saved for special occasions.

This reduces expenses and makes the trip to your local bar or grill more meaningful.

Also, try to use these visits to spend time with friends and loved ones. Often, it’s the experiences we share that create value from the things we do. Of course, always make sure your friends are fine with going out to eat in the first place, especially if they are practicing new forms of budgeting.

Know the Best Times To Visit a Restaurant

Restaurants often use strategies to get customers to visit at certain times of day and throughout the week. This is a way to secure business during perceived slow periods.

For instance, some restaurants may offer a lunchtime menu at lower prices than the evening menu. Or they may host a happy hour during the week that discounts certain drinks and entrees.

You’ll have to do some detective work to catch these deals. Search restaurants online and call the establishment to confirm if they offer any specials, a happy hour, or themed discount days. Calling also confirms if a place’s menu and pricing are current.

Keep Your Home Dining Options in Mind

More often than not, the food you prepare at home will be less expensive than what you find at a restaurant. If you’re going out to eat, make it a valuable dining experience.

Try these tips when you decide to take a break from cooking:

• Order something you can’t make: Try a restaurant with a culinary style that is outside the scope of your skill set. Doing this will broaden your horizons and may even give you new ideas for your cooking.

• Save leftovers from restaurant portions: Many eating establishments offer entrees that can easily qualify as two meals. So, if you see something you like, eat half of it and ask your server to box up the rest. Now you’ll save time and have a meal for tomorrow.
  

Take Advantage of Discounts and Rewards Programs

While paper coupons may be rare, finding discounts is still possible.

• Check the mail for coupon books. Yes, coupon clipping is still a thing! Some restaurants advertise and include coupons for discounts or free items like drinks or appetizers. Check the mail for discount booklets, postcards, and leaflets. You may even find an ad for your next favorite hangout.

   

• Try apps and discount platforms. Many restaurants, especially fast-casual places, have bespoke apps offering occasional discounts and loyalty programs. Platforms like Groupon also have deals promoting restaurants. It may be worthwhile to sign up with these platforms.

   

• Use your card rewards program. Do you have a rewards debit or credit card? The points you earn can be used for cash back or statement credit. Your rewards program may also have special offers specifically for restaurants, so it pays to check your card rewards site for extra savings.
  

Checking out the eating establishments in your area is a great way to support your local economy and even discover something fun. By watching your budget and applying some of these money-saving tips, you can make dining out a more enjoyable experience.

First Florida makes it easier to treat yourself and your loved ones. Check out our Diamond Rewards VISA credit card, which allows you to earn points on your spending that you can trade in for cash back, gift cards, and more.