Many people in the U.S. eat out frequently. In 2012, Americans spent about half of their food dollars on foods prepared away from home, or $2,167. Here are ways to lower your family’s costs when dining out:
Share a Main Dish. Restaurant portions are growing in size, along with our waistlines and the bill at the end of our meals. To decrease all of the above, share a main dish or side dish with a friend or family member. This is a great way for kids to eat healthier, too. Kids’ menus are typically made up of foods high in fat, yet low in nutrients. Small children often don’t eat much, so let your children share from your plate to expand their palate and shrink your calorie intake — and your bill.
Drinks Anyone? Order water with meals instead of sodas or specialty drinks. Even a glass of iced tea can easily add an extra dollar per person to your meal cost. Ask for a slice of fresh lemon to add a special touch and a dash of flavor to your water.
Do Lunch. Lunch menus often offer the same items as dinner menus, but in smaller and lower-priced portions. So opting to go out for lunch, or for an early afternoon supper, can save money. However, even during the evening, a smaller portion or half-order may be offered. Opt for the smaller size and you’ll get more than enough food while saving money.Clue in on Coupons. Some restaurants send out coupons to entice your business. Check your mail, local paper, and even the Internet for special offers. Many restaurants have a weekly kids’ night — where kids under a certain age get a free or reduced-cost meal when they eat with an adult.
Plan your Budget. To reduce your spending on away-from-home dining, reduce how often you and your family eat out. For instance, pick one time every two weeks. Plan where you want to go, cut your coupons and enjoy the meal! If you have a hectic family schedule, look for inexpensive foods when shopping at the grocery store that you can easily use to pack your own “meals-to-go,” and for foods to make quick meals to serve at home.
For more information, please contact Kim Miles, County Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences at 325-646-0386 or kamiles@ag.tamu.edu.
