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Day Four
In yesterday’s post, we began to look at the money that could be saved by cutting back on eating out. Did you feel motivated by the thought of saving $100-$200 or more in this category alone? That money could go into savings or be applied to your car loan or mortgage!
Now, I will be the first to admit that there are times when it is nice to be able to eat out. Let’s talk about a third way to cut the cost of living:
3) Don’t pay full price when you eat out. Here are some ideas to get you going:
- Use Restaurant.com. This company sells $25 and $50 gift certificates to lots of restaurants in your area for $10-$15 each. But…there are always promotions that will allow you to purchase the certificates for anywhere from 50-80% off, meaning that you can often purchase a $25 gift certificate for only $2! Through 4/4/11 the promo code is EAT and gives you 50% off certificates. This is one of the very best ways to dramatically cut your restaurant bill. Groupon and Living Social usually have daily deals for deeply discounted restaurant certificates as well, like $25 for $50 at _______ restaurant.
- Eat at an establishment that will not require you to tip a server. I love Chipotle, Quiznos, Boston Market, Qdoba, Noodles and Co. and others for this reason.
- Drink water! You can save 10-15% or more on your bill by drinking water. Ask for lemon…yum…
- Sign up for birthday or loyalty clubs with your favorite restaurants. A friend was recently telling me about how she always has a coupon for $8 off whenever she eats at TGI Fridays, thanks to the special offers available when you sign up on their website. (Be sure to check out my birthday freebies page for a long list of birthday restaurant deals!)
- Check the websites and Facebook pages of your favorite restaurants for coupons.
- Giant Eagle shoppers: Buy gift cards to your favorite restaurants at Giant Eagle and earn extra fuel perks!
Quizno’s $2.99 for small sub and cookie
Be sure to check your Groupon page for restaurant deals, too!
What ways have you found to cut your restaurant bill? Leave a comment below!
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If you live in ATL, NYC, or San Fran, you can use Scout Mob to get 50% off your bill at many restaurants, salons, etc. Bonus: if you have an iPhone, you can have the coupon loaded onto your phone so no need to print and clip (or even remember to bring it with you). The places with discounts are always premium places to eat!
Great tips! Thank you!