Dining out with your family can be both exciting and worrying. It’s a chance to enjoy a tasty meal and make lasting memories. Yet, eating out can be expensive, straining your budget. But, it’s possible to eat out with kids and save money. By using smart strategies, you can enjoy dining together without spending too much.
Are you ready to learn how to eat out with kids on a budget? Discover kid-friendly restaurants, cheap family meals, and family dining discounts. Explore budget-friendly menus, affordable eateries for families, and money-saving dining tips with children. With these tips, you can enjoy cost-effective dining out options for families and budget family restaurant reviews without spending a lot.
Key Takeaways
- Explore restaurant deals and discounts to save money on family meals
- Set a reasonable dining-out budget to avoid overspending
- Consider swapping dinner for lunch to take advantage of lower prices
- Utilize deal sites and loyalty programs for discounted gift cards
- Order water, appetizers, and shared entrees to control costs
Embrace Restaurant Deals and Discounts
One great way to save money eating out with kids is to use restaurant deals and discounts. Many places have daily specials that offer lower prices or special menus on certain days. By going out on these days, you can get tasty meals for less money.
Daily Specials
For instance, Texas Roadhouse has a Kids Eat Free deal in 2024. This lets families save money when eating out with kids. It gives one free kid’s meal for each adult meal bought, for kids 12 and under. This deal is only for dine-in and is on certain days like Mondays or Tuesdays, so check the details.
Coupons and Promo Codes
Also, look for coupons and promo codes online or on the restaurant’s social media. Setting up alerts for your favorite places can keep you updated on new deals. This way, you can plan your meals out better and save more money.
Using these deals, you can have fun meals with your family without spending too much. Always look for new ways to save when eating out with kids.
Set a Reasonable Dining-Out Budget
Before you start dining out with your family, it’s crucial to set a budget. This helps you manage your money better and avoid spending too much on meals. A clear spending limit is key to sticking to your financial goals.
Start by tracking your dining habits for a week. Note how much you usually spend eating out. This will show you where you can save money.
Research shows families of 4 often find it hard to eat out for less than $100. For a family of 8, the goal is to spend between $10 to $40, sometimes up to $50 to $75 for special events. The author aims to spend under $30 for the family on most outings.
Set a monthly or weekly budget that fits your financial goals and lifestyle. This way, you can enjoy meals out without breaking the bank. Remember, track your spending, set a budget, and stick to it. This keeps your dining-out budget, tracking dining habits, and balancing dining-out expenses in check.
“Having a budget is the best method to save money on dining out or any other expense.”
| Household Type | Average Monthly Dining-Out Spend | Average Annual Dining-Out Spend |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Person Household | $206 | $2,467 |
| Married Couple without Kids | $335 | $4,018 |
| Married Couple with Kids | $462 – $519 | $5,543 – $6,225 |
| Single Parent with at Least One Child Under 18 | $280 | $3,362 |
Swap Dinner for Lunch
Switching from dinner to lunch when dining out can save you money. Many restaurants have smaller portion sizes and lower prices for lunch. This means you can enjoy great food at a better price.
Lunchtime is often less busy, so you might get a better table. This can make eating out with kids more fun and relaxing.
| Meal | Average Cost | Portion Size |
|---|---|---|
| Lunch | $12-$18 per person | Smaller |
| Dinner | $18-$25 per person | Larger |
Choosing lunch over dinner lets your family enjoy smaller portion sizes and lower prices. This makes eating out more affordable.
Utilize Deal Sites for Gift Cards
Dealing with a tight budget for dining out with kids? Deal sites can be your go-to. They often have gift cards or special restaurant offers at a discount. This lets you save money at your favorite places to eat.
Search for gift card deals that give you more value than you pay. For instance, you might find a $50 gift card for just $40. This means you save 20%. Using these deals can help you save more and make your dining-out budget go further.
Set up alerts for deals on the restaurants you like. This way, you’ll know right away when new deals pop up. You won’t miss out on saving money. Some top deal sites to check out include Costco, Entertainment Books, and CiSAVES. They often have big discounts on gift cards and dining experiences.
| Deal Site | Typical Discount | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Costco | 20% | Discounted gift cards for popular restaurants |
| Entertainment Books | 35% or less | Coupons and discounts for local restaurants |
| CiSAVES | 50% | Vouchers and discounted dining experiences |
Using deal sites for discounted gift cards and special restaurant offers can help you eat out with your family without breaking the bank.
Dining Out on a Budget with Kids
Dining out with kids can be tricky. You want to please their taste buds and keep your budget in check. Luckily, there are ways to make it easier. Look for restaurants that offer discounts or free meals for kids on certain days.
Wahlburgers gives one free kids meal with every adult burger, salad, or bowl. Chili’s rewards program offers a free kids meal with an adult meal purchase. Denny’s lets kids eat free with an adult buy of $6 or more, but days and times vary.
Also, check out affordable family-friendly places. Fricker’s has kids eat free all day, every day with an adult meal and drink. IHOP gives free kids meals from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. with an adult meal.
“Dining out with kids can be a balancing act between satisfying their tastes and sticking to your budget.”
For more savings, look at deal sites for discounted restaurant gift cards. This can cut down the cost of your family’s meal.
By using these tips, you can eat out with your family and stay within your budget. A bit of creativity and research can lead you to affordable spots that your kids will love and your wallet will appreciate.
Skip the Pricey Drinks
Dining out with kids can get pricey, especially with expensive drinks or sugary sodas. To save money, think about skipping the pricey drinks and choosing a refreshing glass of free tap water instead. This change can help keep your dining costs down without losing out on the fun of your meal.
Opt for Water
Research shows that 65% of people find ordering water instead of coffee, tea, or soda can cut their bill by about $3 per person. By making this easy switch, you can lower your dining costs a lot without missing out on staying hydrated or feeling satisfied.
Share or Split Entrees
Another great way to save money when eating out with kids is to share or split entrees. Many restaurants give big portions, so you can try different dishes by sharing one entree. This way, you control your food intake and get to taste various flavors without spending too much.
By skipping the pricey drinks, ordering water, and sharing or splitting entrees, you can have a great time dining with your family and stick to your budget. These smart tips can guide you through restaurant dining with kids without spending a lot of money.
Order Appetizers as Main Dishes
Eating out with kids can be expensive. But, there are ways to save money without giving up the fun. Ordering appetizers as your main dishes is a smart move. Many restaurants give big portions for starters, making them cheaper than full meals.
Soup and Salad Combos
Choosing soup and salad combos is another way to save money. These meals are filling and healthy, often costing less than big meals. Families can try different tastes and get a balanced meal by picking this option.
| Appetizer as Main Dish | Soup and Salad Combo |
|---|---|
|
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By trying these creative ways to eat, families can have a great meal without spending a lot. The trick is to look beyond the usual main course. Think about ordering appetizers or soup and salad combos instead.
Stick to Beer or Skip Alcohol
Dining out with kids can get pricey, especially with drinks. To save money, think about skipping the alcohol or choosing beer over cocktails or wine. This can help keep your budget in check.
The average drink tab in bars is about $25 per person. This means you could spend $200 a month or $2,400 a year on drinks. By choosing draft beer, you might find better deals and save on the cost of drinks. Also, picking “well” drinks can save you $5 to $12 per order compared to pricier options.
| Beverage | Markup | Cost Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Glass of Wine | 400% | Significant |
| Mixed Drinks | 1,150% | Substantial |
| Soft Drinks | 1,150% | Considerable |
| Bottled Water | 2,000% | Massive |
When it comes to tips, $1 per drink is standard. But, remember to budget for a 20% tip on your total bill. This ensures the service staff gets fair pay. By skipping the alcohol or opting for beer, you can save a lot on drinks and stay within your dining budget.
“Balancing mindful food spending with occasional indulgences can help individuals stick to their financial plans.”
Avoid Extras like Desserts
When you eat out with your family, it’s easy to want to try those yummy desserts. But, skipping extras like desserts and side dishes can save you a lot of money.
It’s okay to have a treat now and then. But, try not to order too many extras that can make your bill go up fast. Remember, avoiding extras, skipping desserts, and watching your spending can make eating out cheaper.
- Eating out for a big family can cost more than $60 even at fast-food places.
- Choosing to have desserts instead of full meals can make eating out cheaper.
- By skipping drinks like coffee, tea, or soda and choosing water, you can save about $3 per person.
Being careful with what you order and sticking to the main dishes can help you enjoy a meal without spending too much on extras. Remember, budgeting is key to keeping restaurant costs under control and enjoying meals out without spending too much.
“The cost of a package of convenience foods at warehouse stores for quick meals ranges between $15 to $20.”
So, next time you see that dessert menu, think about skipping the extras and sticking to the main dish. This will help you stay within your dining budget.
Take Leftovers Home
When you eat out with your kids, you often get more food than you can eat in one sitting. Instead of wasting it, take the leftovers home. This saves money and helps the environment by reducing food waste.
By taking leftovers home, you can enjoy your meal again, maybe for lunch at work or a quick dinner the next day. It feels like a special treat, without the cost of a new meal. Being mindful of how much you eat helps you make the most of what you paid for, stretching your budget further.
Practice Portion Control
Think about how much your family will eat before you order. Choose dishes that won’t leave you with too much food left over. Ask for a to-go container right away to pack up any leftovers easily. This simple action helps prevent wasting food and money.
- Order appetizers or smaller entrees to match your family’s appetite.
- Share big dishes or split them with others to avoid eating too much.
- Don’t feel forced to finish everything on your plate to avoid overeating.
By controlling portions and taking leftovers home, you save money and help the environment by reducing food waste. It’s a great way to make eating out more budget-friendly and eco-friendly.
“Leftovers can be a lifesaver when dining out with kids on a budget. They allow you to enjoy the meal again later and avoid wasting food and money.”
Join Restaurant Loyalty Programs
Dining out can get expensive, especially with a family. But, you can save money and get discounts by joining restaurant loyalty programs. Many places offer these programs with discounts, free items, and special offers for regular customers. By signing up, you can start earning rewards for your patronage, making dining out more affordable.
Some notable restaurant loyalty programs include:
- Starbucks Rewards: Earn stars for every $1 spent, redeemable for free food and drinks.
- Dunkin’ Rewards: Earn points for every dollar spent, with one dollar equating to 10 points.
- Caribou Coffee Perks: Earn 2 points per $1 spent, with a free drink available at 150 points.
- Dutch Bros Rewards: Earn 5 points per $1 spent, with a free medium drink at 250 points.
- Peet’s Coffee Peetnik Rewards: Earn one point per $1 spent, redeemable for free drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and more.
The benefits of these loyalty programs can add up fast. They help you earn rewards, discounts, and freebies for eating there often. Check with your favorite places to see if they have a loyalty program. Start joining restaurant loyalty programs today to save money.
| Restaurant Loyalty Program | Rewards Structure | Potential Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks Rewards | 1 star per $1 spent | Redeemable for free food and drinks |
| Dunkin’ Rewards | 10 points per $1 spent | Redeemable for free items |
| Caribou Coffee Perks | 2 points per $1 spent | Free drink at 150 points |
| Dutch Bros Rewards | 5 points per $1 spent | Free medium drink at 250 points |
| Peet’s Coffee Peetnik Rewards | 1 point per $1 spent | Free drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and more |
Follow Restaurants on Social Media
Following your favorite restaurants on social media can really help you save money when eating out with kids. Restaurants often post special deals and promotions online. This lets you find savings you might not see otherwise.
By following restaurants on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, you can keep up with their latest deals. You might find discounts, special menu items, or even “kids eat free” nights. These are great for families wanting to save money. So, connect with your favorite restaurants on social media to not miss out on these deals.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Percentage of Restaurants Offering Discounts or Coupons | 75% |
| Percentage of Restaurants with Membership Clubs | 60% |
| Percentage of Restaurants Actively Using Social Media | 85% |
Don’t miss out on these valuable savings; make sure to connect with your go-to dining spots on social media and start accessing exclusive deals and promotions today.
“Following restaurants on social media is a must for families looking to save money on dining out. You’d be surprised at the great deals and discounts you can find.”
By following restaurants on social media, you can stay informed about the latest offers. This is a simple way to enjoy a night out with your family without spending too much.
Look for Kids-Eat-Free Nights
Eating out with kids can get expensive, but many restaurants offer discounted or free meals for children on certain nights. These kids-eat-free deals are perfect for a budget-friendly family meal.
To enjoy these kids-eat-free nights, check with local restaurants. Popular places like IHOP, Denny’s, and Ruby Tuesday give free or discounted meals for kids with an adult meal.
- At IHOP, kids under 12 eat free from 4 PM to 10 PM with an adult meal.
- Denny’s offers free meals for kids under 12 on select nights with a $6 adult meal through their rewards program.
- Ruby Tuesday gives free kids’ meals on Tuesdays after 5:00 PM and all day Fridays with an adult meal.
The Kids Eat Free app is great for families, listing restaurants with kids-eat-free deals. It helps you find and use these family-friendly dining options easily.
“The Kids Eat Free app has helped thousands of parents save money on dining out with their children.”
Conclusion
Dining out with your kids can be fun but can also be expensive. By using the smart tips in this article, you can eat at your favorite places without spending too much. You can save money by looking for deals, eating smaller portions, and joining loyalty programs.
With some planning and creativity, you can enjoy your food adventures without spending too much. By managing your dining-out costs and using the tips for eating out with kids on a budget, you can make great memories. This way, you won’t have to give up your financial goals.
The key to eating out without spending a lot is to stay informed and make smart choices. Enjoy eating out with your family but do it in a way that fits your budget. With a bit of effort, you can have tasty meals and still keep your bank account healthy.
FAQ
How can I take advantage of restaurant deals and discounts when dining out with kids?
Look for daily specials, coupons, and promo codes to save money. Many restaurants offer discounts on certain days. Also, check third-party websites or the restaurant’s social media for deals.
How do I set a reasonable dining-out budget for my family?
Start by tracking your spending for a week to understand your habits. Then, set a monthly or weekly limit that fits your budget. This helps you spend wisely and avoid overspending.
Why should I consider swapping dinner for lunch when dining out with kids?
Many restaurants have smaller portions and lower prices for lunch. This way, you can enjoy great food at a better price. Plus, lunchtime is usually less busy, making it a more relaxed experience.
How can I use deal sites to save money on dining out?
Look for discounted gift card offers on deal sites. These deals let you buy gift cards for more than their face value. Then, use them at your favorite restaurants to save money.
What are some tips for finding budget-friendly, kid-friendly dining options?
Check for discounted or free kids’ meals on certain nights. Also, look for affordable family-friendly restaurants, like casual chains or local spots with budget-friendly menus.
How can I save money on beverages and extras when dining out with kids?
Choose free tap water instead of expensive sodas or cocktails. Sharing entrees with others can also help cut costs. Skip unnecessary add-ons like desserts to save money.
What are some strategies for making the most of my dining-out budget?
Order appetizers as your main meal for a big portion at a lower price. Look for soup and salad combos for a budget-friendly meal. Also, ask for a to-go box to enjoy leftovers later.
How can I take advantage of restaurant loyalty programs to save money?
Sign up for loyalty programs at your favorite restaurants. These programs often offer discounts, free items, or special deals. This can help lower your dining-out costs.
Where can I find the latest deals and promotions for my favorite restaurants?
Follow your favorite restaurants on social media like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. They often post exclusive deals and promotions there, keeping you updated on savings.