2008 is behind us, and it’s a year that many would like to forget. Ripples from the housing and mortgage crisis have spread across the broader domestic and global economies, creating turmoil in financial markets and the broader economy.
Everyone has had to tighten their belts, but we still want to loosen them up a bit every now and then and enjoy a good meal or some cocktails with our friends and family. What are some ways to save money on your dining budget? Read on to find out more.

Happy Hours and Late Night Menus

Restaurants are typically slower during the early evening and later hours, and many offer Happy Hours or special late night menus offering appetizers and drinks at reduced prices. Other restaurants have special “Early Bird” menus for those who are hungry early. Still others have special late evening menus with steep discounts on food for the night owls. Using Eatdrinkdeals.com to search for these deals is a great way to save money.

Eat at the Bar

Many restaurants, even finer establishments, offer special menus at the bar that have a variety of food available for a much lower price. So, you can take your date out to that trendy new joint up the street, without going broke, and still enjoy the atmosphere.

Sharing Entrees

Let’s face it - at some restaurants the portion sizes are so big that even the heartiest of appetites aren’t able to clean their plate. Splitting entrees is an excellent way to save money. Many restaurants, though, add a small charge for those sharing a main course, so be sure to check with your server beforehand to avoid surprises when the check arrives.

Free appetizers

Many establishments will bring out chips and salsa, bread, salad, or some other complimentary food prior to the meal. During Happy Hours, some restaurants offer more substantial free hor d’oeuvres at the bar if you purchase a drink or two. Check out Eatdrinkdeals.com to see which restaurants in your area offer free food.

Drink Costs

Drinks such as sodas and iced tea often have a pretty big markup, sometimes costing $3 or more. Alcohol is even more expensive. This can quickly add up for larger groups. Switch to water to cut back on your bill.

Deal of the Day

Many restaurants offer daily specials to help bring people in. Are you a big fan of tacos? How about a juicy burger? Search Eatdrinkdeals.com and you’ll find many establishments offering great deals for particular types of food, especially on the weeknights. You can save money by always knowing which establishment in town is offering the deal of the day.

Use Coupons

Many restaurants offer coupons to use for reduced prices on appetizers, or entrees, or even the entire bill. A great deal of these are available online - all you need to do is print the coupon and present it to your waiter a nd you can get a great discount on your meals. Eatdrinkdeals.com has links to tons of restaurants with online coupons, so check out our website to see which of your favorite places have them available. You can also find them in your local newspaper or coupon mailer. Save them in an envolope and use them later when it’s time to eat out.

Kids Eat Free

Want to enjoy a fun night out with the family, but don’t want to break your budget? Many restaurants have special nights where kids can eat for free with a paying adult. These specials often run during the slower times for restaurants, such as the middle of the week. Visit Eatdrinkdeals.com to find spots in your area offering such deals.

Gift Certificate Savings

Websites such as Restaurant.com frequently run specials where they will offer their gift certificates at substantial discounts. For example, you can buy a $25 gift certificate to many of your favorite restaurants for $20, $10, or even less! These also make great gifts for the holidays. With all the troubles of the economy, it’s important to keep in mind that eating out is fun! It’s a great way to spend time with loved ones or get to know new friends. With these hints, you should now be able to go out and enjoy yourself without emptying your wallet! Cheers! Comments? Email us at owner@eatdrinkdeals.com