How to Save Money Eating Out

Enjoy eating out and save money, too: Tips for baby boomers

"Want to eat out and save money, too? It is possible to do just that!"

With many baby boomers seeking ways to save money, eating out can present a financial challenge. Money that you save, is money that you don't have to re-earn. If you can save a few dollars here and there, when eating out, it is going to be extra money in your pocket.

Consider the following tips on how to enjoy eating out and save money, too.

While it may be fun to eat out in the fanciest and the most expensive restaurant in town, it may not be your wisest choice, financially. The food in these places may be over-priced, although that is not always the case.

Before you head out to a restaurant, find out if there are other, less expensive options with respect to other restaurants, in the area. Sometimes, other restaurants may have food that is just as good, if not better and it may cost you less.

If possible, book a table for a specific time, at the restaurant of your choice and while you are doing the booking, ask from the person who answers your call, what the menu consists of and the price range you should expect. Ask about other menu options, also. You may be offered something similar, at a lower cost.

Find out if there are specials of the day or package deals for groups or families, available on special occasions.

Go to buffets or smorgasbords if you want to order a wide variety of items that may or may not be on the menu. Each item may be billed separately, in some restaurants. You may be able to purchase two meals for what it costs to have every item billed separately.

If you are ordering wine, you may be tempted to purchase wine directly from the menu, but by ordering a house wine, you can save dollars and the wine may be just as good. If you order a bottle of wine, instead of wine by the glass, it will be less costly.

Liquor and liqueurs can be expensive, when ordered at a restaurant. Before ordering your drinks, find out what your cost is going to be. You might prefer to purchase them and consume them at home, in order to save money.

Ask what is included with your meal, so that you do not find out later, that you  have to order coffee or tea, as these will be billed separately and will cost more.

Find out if your vegetables, soups, salads and desserts are included in your meal, as these can be expensive, when purchased individually or as side dishes. Desserts may appear to be delicious, but a dish of ice cream, might cost you less. If possible, order meals that are all inclusive.

Some restaurants will allow second portions or unlimited portions, while others may charge you extra. They may offer free refills on coffee and tea or charge you extra for them, as well.

Some restaurants will increase their rates at dinnertime. Eating exactly the same thing, at a different time of day, may be less expensive.

Have your big meal of the day at lunchtime, instead of at dinnertime. That way you may save dollars and you have a chance to work off extra calories.

Check into hidden fees or costs, that may be added to you bill, unknowingly.

Your seating in some areas of the restaurant, may be more expensive than it is in other areas. For example, if you are in the best spot for a dinner show, you might pay top dollar, whereas if you were seated off to one side or towards the back, it could cost you less.

Tipping your waiter or waitress is your option, not necessarily an obligation. Normally, ten to fifteen percent of your bill is reasonable. Tip the person who serves you, not every waiter or waitress in the restaurant. Tipping is a gesture of good will on your part and a way to say thank you for good service. People who tip well, may get better service.

Dress appropriately for the restaurant, as there may be additional charges, if you show up without a tie and have to rent one. You will receive better service, if you are wearing shoes and a shirt. Some restaurants will not allow you to enter, unless you are clothed in proper attire.

If you are a family dining out together, find a family restaurant, as it will be less expensive. They will be happy to give you doggie bags to take home, with any leftovers.

When you are in a strange city, ask local residents where the best restaurants are in town. They will advise you who serves the best food, at the best prices.

These are a few tips for baby boomers, about how to save money when eating out. You may be able to add your own ideas to the list and save even more. Enjoy eating out.