But, you know what? For this reason, some restaurants hike up their prices for those extra busy days. Skip the holidays and eat at home. There are some days of the week like Tuesdays that are always slower than the rest. Restaurants often have special offers to attract customers on these days.

While the restaurants are busy filling their seats, you can fill your belly at a lower price. Some restaurants have special offers for birthdays and anniversaries. Hey, at the very least, you might get some free cake. This is a normal way of thinking. So to avoid this, eat a snack before you leave home.

At the end of the night, when you receive your bill, check and double-check it. Waiters are human and they make mistakes. Sometimes, additional items may be added onto your bill that you never ordered or you may even receive the wrong bill altogether.

It happens! Side note: Once, I was at the gas station and the attendant accidentally added an extra zero onto my bill when I paid with my debit card. That additional zero would have made a huge difference to my total. If you notice any discrepancies, speak up and get them taken care of.

There you have it—Fifteen savvy ways to save money at restaurants. Use these tips to have fun dining out on a dime. Did you enjoy this post? If wine is your poison of choice, then look for places with corkage, which is different to B.

Another good tip: avoid carafes. Do consider choosing one blindingly great glass of wine over several good ones, too. And if you simply must order a bottle? Think of your favorite restaurants. Do they serve ten to 12 courses with wine pairings? I thought not.

Yes, tasting menus are extraordinary. They are a culinary adventure, and a privilege to enjoy. But they are not cheap, nor are they set up for maximizing chatter and laughter with loved ones.

Prix fixe menus are—or should be—representative of the à la carte offering, and are a clever way of sampling all three courses without breaking the bank, says Richard Wright. Richard Wright concurs. The lunch menu gives you a similar amount of food to an entrée, at a discounted price.

Sometimes, it can actually be more food when you include soup or salad. Available online, in-app, or in your mailbox, coupons can shave money off your restaurant bill.

A BOGO deal or an offer to take 10 percent off your bill can add up to good savings. Sign up for deal alerts from your favorite restaurants, keep an eye on in-app promotions from Waze or other apps already on your phone, and search Groupon for local deals before you make plans to go out.

Coupons can help you keep a little more of your money, which can add up. Once your food gets delivered to your table, ask for a to-go box, and immediately pack up half your meal for later. The idea is to have food for lunch or possibly dinner the following day. This technique stretches your budget to save you money and gives you a bonus meal at the same time.

This is a consistent money-saving tip for eating out. Many entrée portions take up an entire plate, leaving a sizable amount for a take-home box.

Those meals are perfect to split, cutting the cost of a meal in half while providing each of you with a good portion to eat.

And this option is perfect for a not first date night to add a nice intimate vibe while keeping your wallet in check. This tip requires an earlier start to going out but is another money-saving strategy.

Happy hour specials offer a big savings opportunity to get significant deals on appetizers and drinks. This helps you to stretch your money when you go out with friends. Do a little homework on your favorite restaurants to know the happy hour days and times.

In general, you should avoid ordering appetizers or starters in addition to your meal. Instead, use them as an entrée to save money. Order a few as a group and have some fun.

Avoid tasting menus but do look for set menus, particularly at lunch Skip the snacks

Money-saving dining suggestions - Limit your alcohol intake rather than cutting booze out altogether Avoid tasting menus but do look for set menus, particularly at lunch Skip the snacks

com and Rakuten give you cash back or reward points when you make certain purchases or make a reservation at a participating restaurant. There are plenty of delicious, filling alternatives on most menus. Coupons for Local Stores. Save on clothing, gifts, beauty and other everyday shopping needs.

Many restaurants and quick-serve establishments will help you celebrate your birthday by giving you a discount on menu items, a free drink or even a birthday dessert. Most restaurants require you to sign up for their loyalty program to get the celebratory kickback. These deals tend to be good for a few days after your birthday, which means you can spread out the savings.

If you are asked to take a survey at the end of the meal, do it, says Dvorkin. Sometimes restaurants will reward you with a coupon or discount for sharing your thoughts on your experience.

She has spent over two decades writing and covering news for several national publications including The Wall Street Journal , Forbes , Investopedia and HerMoney.

Discover AARP Members Only Access. Already a Member? Take 5 Expenses Off the Chopping Block. Inflation Strikes Homeowners Insurance Too.

Get Higher Yields With Brokered CDs. See All. High Yield Savings from Marcus by Goldman Sachs®. Rate bonus on high-yield online savings account. AARP Long-Term Care Options from New York Life. Custom long-term care options to fit your needs and budget. A free resource to help you assess a financial advisor.

AARP® Staying Sharp®. Activities, recipes, challenges and more with full access to AARP Staying Sharp®. SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS.

Even with food prices soaring you can save on restaurant meals. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn. Donna Fuscaldo,.

I acknowledge that, however reluctantly. But you know what also reduces the bill? Savvy drinking. It means thinking about what you love, and how best to savor it. Is it an aperitif? Then make that your splurge item. If wine is your poison of choice, then look for places with corkage, which is different to B.

Another good tip: avoid carafes. Do consider choosing one blindingly great glass of wine over several good ones, too. And if you simply must order a bottle?

Think of your favorite restaurants. Do they serve ten to 12 courses with wine pairings? I thought not. Yes, tasting menus are extraordinary. They are a culinary adventure, and a privilege to enjoy. But they are not cheap, nor are they set up for maximizing chatter and laughter with loved ones.

Prix fixe menus are—or should be—representative of the à la carte offering, and are a clever way of sampling all three courses without breaking the bank, says Richard Wright. Richard Wright concurs.

Or just split the bill fairly, like you did in your student days.

Video