After a long week of work, the last thing many couples want to do is cook on Friday night. Whether it’s ordering up a pizza or heading out to a local restaurant, it’s a night to relax and unwind. Especially if there’s a full schedule for the weekend—running around to the kid’s soccer games, softball, or other activities.
Being inherently frugal, I always try to find a bargain if I can, and that includes deals on our Friday night dining. I’m going to share some of those ways you can enjoy your night out without breaking the bank.
One way you can try out new places and stay economical is to purchase certificates for reduced dining. Restaurant.com and Groupon.com are two sites that offer such opportunities. Groupon also offers specials on other items via daily emails. Restaurant.com will occasionally have 80 percent off specials on their gift certificates, which means you could end up buying a $25 gift certificate for only $2.
Just make sure you check all the fine print when you can use the certificates. For example, the one seafood restaurant we visit down at the shore only accepts the Restaurant.com certificates from October to May.
Also, take a moment to check your local big box store like Costco. They have begun carrying reduced gift cards to area dining spots, as well as entertainment venues.
There are many restaurants and fast food joints which offer discounts as well.
Check out these restaurants’ sites to either get coupons on their sites or have specials emailed to you:
- Charlie Brown’ s
- Chili’ s
- Applebee’ s
- Popeye’ s – Each store has its own coupons
- Baja Fresh
- KFC
These are just some of the ways you can save in today’s tight economy. Some restaurants have frequent diners cards, and others have free membership rewards. Another way to save is to dine during off peak hours (i.e. the much maligned early bird specials or mid-week discounts).
Happy dining!
