Coupons are great! Look in your local papers and mailers such as Valpak. If there’s a restaurant you love, call them and ask if they have any coupons out. If your area has an Entertainment Book (www.entertainment.com) you can usually buy them for under $50 (sometimes well under) and save on not only meals, but movies, sporting events, family entertainment and many other events and services. Scan the book briefly before you purchase to make sure they are places you will go. Many times the coupons are BOGO (buy 1 get one) so savings add up fast! Also, if the book was purchased from a charitable organization you may be able to deduct its cost from your income taxes be sure to check. As these books are sold in many areas, if you are traveling they may be worth the purchase price for the city you are visiting.

Frequent diner discounts. See if your favorite spots offer any discounts for visiting often. Sometimes there is a discount card or special coupons for designed to build loyalty. Sometimes there’s a discount if you bring guests. As always, it pays to ask. Share and share alike. Sometimes portions sizes and prices prohibit you from enjoying dining out. Try sharing appetizers, desserts, even entrees. You’ll save a lot of money and a lot of calories. If you find a restaurant charges a fee to split the entree think about going some place else. Most restaurants are more than happy to do it. Off season deals. If you live in or travel to tourist areas take advantage of their slow season. Off season can be great in other ways as well. The service may be more personable and you’ll have fewer crowds to worry about. Act your age. Take advantage of senior discounts or student discounts. Start looking for them. Also it’s good to know that many restaurants will give you things on your birthday. Whether it’s a free drink or dessert don’t hesitate to ask.

Discounts on the web. Many cities have web sites where popular restaurants like to advertise. On these sites you’ll find printable coupons or discount codes to mention. There are also services like www.rewardsnetwork.com (formerly www.idine.com). If you dine out often this service offers discounts on 1000′s of restaurants around the country. There is a membership fee but then no coupons to carry as you register your credit cards and receive the discount automatically. Not for everyone, but a great savings to those it applies to. Take it home. Many restaurants (even fine ones) offer take out service. This is a great way to save. Bring your dinners home (or make a picnic) and save on drinks and tip! When in doubt, carry out! Do drink the water. Drinks can add up fast and for many it’s really no sacrifice to just ask for water. If you’re drinking alcohol don’t fall for the “premium” or “ultimate” drinks. These mixed cocktails using the top shelf liquor can be nearly twice as expensive as those made with “house” spirits. Unless you’re a connoisseur you won’t know the difference. Always ask for specials before you decide. Watch out for the pitch. Good waiters and waitresses are often highly skilled at suggestive selling. Before you know what’s hit you, you’ve ordered coffee and dessert or extras on your salad. Don’t fall for the sneaky up-grades. Decide what you want and stick with it, same for refills on drinks. You don’t want to spoil a nice meal by seeing a lot of unplanned for charges show up on your final bill.