Fine Dining on a Budget

Are you tired of the same old fast food and family chain restaurants? It is possible to go to fancier establishments without paying huge amounts of money. Knowing a few tips can save you large amounts of money while allowing you to experience the world of fine dining.

Early bird specials are served in many fine restaurants. Early diners (usually before 6:00 P.M.) are offered special prices. This low traffic time of the day provides the kitchen staff a chance to warm up for the evening rush and provides diners with a chance to experience fine dining for a low price. Many of these restaurants also offer early bird drink specials, so you do not have to forgo the alcohol.

Look for restaurants that offer special dinners for couples. Many restaurants out there do offer special menus for a discount. These menus normally offer set prices of $35 to $60 per couple. The diners can choose their appetizer, entrée, glass of wine, and dessert from a special menu and pay the fixed price. Usually, the choices are limited to three or four choices per category, but it is worth the price. Call around to find out which restaurant offers these fixed price meals.

Cut back on alcohol and appetizers. Alcohol in restaurants is drastically overpriced. If you avoid those items, you can save plenty of money. Visiting a bring your own bottle establishment has money saving advantages. Alternately, you can order a couple appetizers to share and then have one drink each. Often, two appetizers cost the same as one entrée.

Look into purchasing an Entertainment Book. This book usually costs between $30 and $40 and can be purchased from local schools. Entertainment Book gives a portion of the retail cost to the charity or organization that is selling their books. The Entertainment Book gives you a discount or two-for-one offer at many area restaurants. If you dine out even a few times per year, you can easily recover the price of the book and gain additional grocery store savings, hotel discounts, theme park discounts, and even air travel savings.

Check your area's phone book and newspaper. Often, restaurants offer extensive discounts or two-for-one meals in order to attract business. You can save a bundle by searching for these discount coupons.

Additionally, look to see if the area in which you will be dining sells dining cards. These cards are accepted by a number of area restaurants and will give you up to a 50% discount off your bill. Usually, dining cards cost $40, but the savings quickly adds up and pays for itself after a few meals.

Did you know that AAA members could show their cards at many restaurants and earn a 10% discount? AAA's popular automotive club is accepted at specific restaurants; you can get a list online. Showing your membership card entitles you to 10% off all entrees or your total bill. This can help you eat at fancier restaurants without paying more than you would at a chain restaurant.

Dining out at finer establishments does not have to deplete your savings. You can eat out at these establishments and save money if you follow these tips. Both your and your date will enjoy your evening out, experience excellent cuisine, and have money in your pocket by the end of the evening.