Last week, I began a post on restaurant savings entitled “4 Tips For Saving Money When Eating Out.” Today, I would like to continue that post with four more money-saving tips:

1) Consider investing in a coupon book such as an Entertainment Book or other coupon book that your city offers.
These books usually pay for themselves very quickly. We received one as a gift for Christmas, and our savings would have already paid for it twice. These really do make wonderful gifts, and they are on great sale right now (50% off and free shipping).
The key to saving with any type of coupon book, is remembering to use them. A good idea, is to keep it in your car, so you have the coupons with you at all times.

2) Use Restaurant.com
This is an excellent resource for planning special date nights. The best deal is to wait until the certificates go on sale for $2 for $25. The deals usually work where you have to spend at least $35, but that still means you are eating out for between $12-$15 (with tax and tip), which is a pretty awesome deal! Also if you go through Ebates.com you get 15% cash back, which is another great bonus!

3) Don’t be afraid to use coupons
Some people may feel hesitant to use coupons at a restaurant. I know I did at first. I am learning however, that there is absolutely no shame in saving money. You are still giving the establishment your business. If they didn’t want you to use coupons they wouldn’t print them. Also, if you enjoy your experience, you can repay the resturant by speaking positively of them to others. Word-of-mouth advertising is the best kind.

4)Consider Carry-out
Another great option is to get your food carry out. This way you avoid the extra cost of tip and drinks. We don’t usually buy drinks anyway (why pay $2 for a glass of coke that only really costs 5 cents?)