Guest post by Hotcouponworld Super Mod Tacatcon

In a tough economy, one of the first places families choose to tighten the belt is in entertainment! But a night out doesn’t have to be such a luxury if you use a few tricks to discount dining out!

1. Search social networking sites for your favorite restaurants. Many restaurants have Facebook pages and simply by “liking” the company you gain access to special discounts you might otherwise miss! You might also find out about special events happening where you can try a new offering.

2. Look at Restaurant.com for restaurants in your area! Participating restaurants offer $25 gift certificates for $10, $50 gift certificates for $20, etc. Gift certificates stay in your account until you decide to print and redeem. Most have restrictions such as a minimum purchase amount but they are relatively easy to use.

Hint:  If you create an account with Restaurant.com, you will receive emails with promotional codes that will allow you to get a gift certificate for 70% or even 80% off-buy then even if you won’t use them right away!  They don’t expire and you’ll save a bundle.  Our own Hotcouponworld newsletter often publishes these codes as well.

3. Don’t be shy about using a coupon! Check sites such as Offers.com, Printable Coupon Spot, and other sites for printable coupons you can use at restaurants in your area. The newspaper inserts often have coupons for chain restaurants as well. Did your nephew sell an Entertainment Book as a fundraiser for his school this year? Check if there are any coupons in there for your favorite restaurant or online! Of course check the Hot Coupon World Restaurant Deals forum before you go!

4. Ask if the restaurant has a rewards program. Several restaurants now offer a rewards program or card where you can earn free appetizers, a discounted meal or a free dessert! Sometimes it’s just money right off your check! For example: you can score a coupon for a free appetizer at Uno’s just for signing up with their Insider’s Club. And if you participate in survey sites or rewards sites, consider programs that let you redeem your points for restaurant gift cards!

5. Consider “doing lunch” instead of dinner. Often the same meal you can get at dinner is available in a “lunch portion” for a lesser price up until 3 pm or so. Also check if there is a tapas menu at the bar. You can help your waistline with smaller portions and your budget at the same time! And early bird specials don’t have to be just for seniors-go early and beat the crowds!

6. Many restaurants have a “Kids Eat Free” night or consider a buffet and see if the kids’ price is cheaper for the buffet. You can enjoy a soup and salad buffet for about $10 in many local restaurants here in MA.

7. Check out your grocery store’s cafe if they have one! Wal-Mart even offers many of these items now at a great price. You can get a seafood dinner, pizza, grinders, chicken or pasta along with sides and eat it there or bring it to the park for a picnic! Dinner and a movie can take on a whole new life when you pack a picnic and head to the drive in! What a great way to spend some quality time with your family and not spend a lot of money!

8. Drinks are one of the biggest budget busters. Fountain drinks can have a markup of 100% or more. Skip the soda and ask for water. If you need a little flavor, bring your own Crystal Light single packet or similar to add. Average markup on a bottle of wine can be anywhere from 200% up and it’s more expensive if you buy it by the glass! So if you like to have a glass of wine or beer with your dinner, consider a restaurant that is B.Y.O.B. (bring your own booze) as you can save a bundle. The restaurant will provide you with the glasses and ice for free.

9. Split your meal! If sharing is allowed order a meal you both like and ask for two plates. Then splurge for dessert!

10. Instead of going to a restaurant, “dine out” at a friend’s house. Trade off nights with a group of friends and take turns cooking for the group. You can share some good company and alot of good food and it won’t cost you a portion of what you would have spent!

Eating out doesn’t have to be a thing of the past with a little planning ahead and some research!

Bon appétit!

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What tips do you have for saving money while dining out?