How to dine out for less

Having a lovely meal out is a great way to catch up and unwind with those you care about.Haven't you noticed food always seems much nicer when it's being cooked for you! More people are spending a large portion of their disposable income on dining out,thanks to there being more interest in various cuisines and probably because it's enjoyable too! I'm sharing some tips that I use to still have a wonderful meal without it costing the Earth.

1.Take advantage of restaurant vouchers 

There are some great sites that offer brilliant deals on eating out, and they definitely help cut the cost.Just print them off and take them along to the restaurant.It's always best to check that the location you're going to is participating,but you shouldn't have a problem.The vouchers vary but often you can get up to 25% off! Sites I would suggest are Money Saving Expert and Voucher Codes,they are normally kept very up to date with the latest deals

Here are my top picks;

Buy 1 main and get a 2nd for £2.50 at Bella Italia (expires 16th March)

30% of main courses at Zizzi (Victoria and Earl's Courts restaurants excluded)

25% of your food bill at Loch Fyne (valid until 31st March)

I'd definitely sign up to your favourite restaurant's newsletter as they often send their customers their latest offers and news via email! 

2. Try to recreate the meals at home

I know that this post is about dining out,and I'm no Delia Smith,but it can really save money.Also, expanding your cooking knowledge and giving your family something you've made can be a great confidence boost! Sometimes there is nothing nicer than sharing something you've spend time over.Normally go for a curry? Try to make a Chicken Tikka. More of a pizza person? Why not buy a pre-made base and top it with whatever you fancy?

If you're trying to save even more money,there are some great sites that help you think of what to make out of all of the items you have left over in your fridge.My Fridge Food does just that! Just click on what food you have and it will create delicious recipes for you.It's a great way to stop food going off and buying what you don't need.

3. Save money on drinks and share food

We all know how much a good meal out can cost! One way I've found that really helps to cut the bill is by asking for a glass of tap water to drink.I know it's not the most exciting thing,but restaurants can charge £4 + for a nice glass of wine or a soft drink.Also,if you're out with someone else,why not offer to split a pizza? I've done that before and just got my own portion of chips.We left full and still with quite a bit of money left over for the evening.

Using these simple tips has really helped me free up some of my money for more important things.I know what it's like when you can't spend much,so I hope this helps people have a great time out for less!

Do you have any tips on saving money when dining out?