Top 5 ways to eat out for less
Published: December 2nd, 2009
I’m a foodie, and if there is one thing I hate it is cutting down on is eating out. This is a problem faced by many, and with the recession in full swing, this is not likely going to get better any time soon.
But there are many ways that you can still eat out, and still save money. Whether this might be to take out your partner on a special occasion, or to dine somewhere special with your best friend.
Check out my top tips to eat out for less:
1# Take advantage Of Restaurant Vouchers
Restaurants, and especially the bigger chains are always looking to increase their market share, and tempt customers into their restaurants instead of the competition.
Restaurants are also keen on getting us to try their new products or drinks – The best way for restaurants to target us for this is to issue restaurant vouchers to save money off the meal, or to get a free meal.
Take advantage of these to get a free meal, 50% off your meal, or even free wine – But be quick, these offers are usually time limited!
The best way to take advantage of these is to sign up to our newsletter so you never miss a deal!
2# Sign Up To Restaurant Loyalty Clubs
Restaurants are now more than ever looking to create a relationship with customers, so that they can create a loyal following.
In order to get customer’s contact details, they usually have a loyalty club, or newsletter you can subscribe to. Make sure you register with your favourite restaurants to take advantage of member only offers!
3# Bring Your Own Bottle
This applies more to the smaller independent restaurants, and is a concept which was very popular a few years ago and is now gaining popularity again.
The concept is simple, some restaurants will let customers bring their own wine to accompany their meal. They then charge a modest corkage fee to cover their cost.
This is a great way of saving on your meal, as you can get some really good wines for a few £££ at the supermarket or local wine merchant instead of spending £15+ on a bottle of house wine.
Make sure you ask the restaurant owner before though if they offer corkage!
4# Be A Frugal Customer
Many customers forget, or just don’t know that service is optional for groups under 4-5 depending on the restaurant. The service charge should be given at your discretion if you are happy about the meal and service.
That service charge is your Tip! Therefore, if you didn’t get good service ask the waiter to take it out of your bill! And if your bill includes service, you shouldn’t need to tip extra, unless you want to!
But if you enjoyed your meal, make sure you tip generously as most restaurant staff rely on tips to complement their income.
5# Join A Food Club
Some restaurants will be able to offer a flexible menu, or a custom set menu if you can bring a group along. This means you can sometimes negotiate the price of the set menu or get a bottle of wine free and save £££.
There are many food and drinks clubs running throughout the UK, some are run as clubs, others are simply informal meet-ups. Make sure you join one in your local area as you will be able to meet fellow foodies like you, and the club will be able to negotiate discounted meals or wine thanks to its numbers.
