How to Make Eating Out Less Expensive? (Simple Hacks You’ll Love)

Unlock Secret Discounts

Most people don’t realize that you can save this much on eating out—or that hacking your bill at restaurants is even possible. When I first tracked my “dining out” budget, I nearly had a heart attack. Where was my money going? Burgers, pizzas, late-night “I’m too tired to cook” moments…all adding up. But here’s the twist: eating out doesn’t have to nuke your budget. It’s honestly wild how much you can save with a couple of secret moves and a tiny mindset shift.

Ever gotten a free dessert just for showing up? Or used your birthday as an excuse for a discounted meal? Don’t even get me started on those punch cards and loyalty apps—the ones you always forget you have. Well, dust those off. Restaurants actually reward you for being a little bit strategic (and a tiny bit sneaky…in the best way).

What Perks Are Lurking?

Big chains, small mom-and-pops, and even fast food spots play the discount game. Signing up for an email list? You might land a 10-20% off coupon. Order online? Some spots toss in a side for free. And don’t sleep on your birthday—most family restaurants practically throw food at you. Last year I got a free entree and a dessert just because it was my “special day”—saved like $18, no joke.

And hey, if you’re military or a student, ask about discounts. You’d be surprised how many times a quick question drops your total.

Table: Easy Discount Wins

If you’re looking for more under-the-radar tips, the Cheapest place to eat out guide is full of unexpected places where the discounts come easy.

Master Timing Tricks

Let’s be real—sometimes it’s not when you eat, but when you eat. Sound weird? Stick with me. Restaurants change price tags depending on the crowd. Lunch deals, happy hours, “late night” specials—they all add up, and a little planning can chop your bill in half.

When Should You Go?

Lunchtime is the obvious one—those specials aren’t just for 9-to-5ers. I once got a full meal and two sides for less than I’d pay for just the main dish at dinner. Happy hour? Two-for-one apps and cheaper drinks (if you even order drinks, but more on that in a sec). Even late at night, some diners drop prices or toss in bonus sides just to fill seats. You just have to ask (or squint at the back of the menu—seriously, that’s where the good stuff hides).

Table: When To Eat for Less

This isn’t just theory—my old friend group basically lived on happy hour nachos every Thursday for a year. Not only did it save us a ton, it became a tradition I still miss. (And honestly? Cheaper than movie night or bowling, by a mile.)

Order Like a Pro

Here comes the real magic. Did you know you can cut down your bill just by swapping out what you order—or even how you order? I didn’t either…until I watched my thriftiest friend in action.

Can Skipping Drinks Save You Money?

If you’re wondering, “How to make eating out less expensive?”—this move is so painless it hurts. Drinks are where restaurants make a killing. Water = free. Ask for it, skip the $3–$4 sodas or that one beer “just because.” For a family of four? You just saved $10–$16, boom.

Then there’s the sharing thing. Appetizers are huge. Mains? Humongous. America loves giant portions—so why not cut them in half? Two people order one big thing and share, then split a side if you’re still hungry. Or order from the kids’ menu if you’re not starving. (I’m not ashamed. Chicken fingers are delicious. No judgment.)

Example: Portion Play

• Order “family style” at a taco place—three people, one platter, everyone stuffed = $7 each instead of $15.
• Couple orders a giant pizza, saves two slices for lunch. Dinner and tomorrow sorted.

Ready for some more cheap eating out hacks? I always ask for sauces and bread upfront (hello, free carbs). Not to mention that some spots have “secret deals” for people in the know. Just ask the server: “Any specials not listed?” You’ll be surprised what pops up.

For big family outings, there’s zero shame in hitting up cheap ways to eat out as a family. Honest. Have you seen what it costs to take a family of five out these days? Yikes. A little smart ordering goes a long way.

Fast Food Secrets

I know what you’re thinking. Fast food is already cheap, right? Sometimes. Not always. Those little “extras” add up fast. But if you’re smart, you can hack your way through the drive-thru and walk away with a full belly and cash in your pocket.

What Are the Cheapest Combos?

Look for value menus and order off the app—seriously, do not skip the app. They throw discounts and coupons at you constantly. (I once scored a free chicken sandwich just for clicking a notification. Best lunch ever.)

Skip the meal deal, grab just the main item. Or buy a couple of things and share fries. You don’t have to supersize for the experience. Sometimes those “family bundles” for $10–$12 go further than buying separate meals for everyone—and you might even have leftovers for later (score!).

Want a rundown of the best low-cost options? The cheapest place to eat fast food list is your new best friend when you’re starving but refuse to go broke for a burger.

Personal Hack Table

One time, I set a $5 challenge with my sister—could we both eat lunch at a drive-thru and not go over? Thanks to some quick math and a value menu, we did…with change to spare. It even became a little game for us. (Cheap fun, too.)

Eat Out…at Home?

This one surprised me. But hear me out: Sometimes “eating out” doesn’t have to happen at a restaurant. With the right hacks, you can recreate that feeling (and those flavors) at home for a tiny fraction of the price.

How Does “Fakeout Takeout” Work?

Next time you’re craving Chinese or pizza, check the takeout specials—most places now give big discounts for pickup, even “family packs.” Grab it and eat at home…no tip, no delivery fee, no pressure to dress up. You just hacked off $10–$20 from the bill without sacrificing the taste.

Or…want even more control? Copycat recipes. I know, I know—maybe you’re not a whiz in the kitchen. But pick a favorite (cheese fries, fried rice, whatever) and look up “copycat [restaurant name] recipe.” Seriously—it’s easier than you think. I found one for my favorite mac and cheese and now I can whip up restaurant vibes for $5 total…and, let’s be honest, eat it in pajamas. Double win.

Potlucks with friends are gold here. I read on Reddit about a group that swapped out weekly restaurant hangouts for “rotating” living room dinners and game nights. Not only did they all save hundreds, but it became their new “thing.” No FOMO, all the fun, way less cost. Want to see more “fakeout” ideas? See how to make eating out less expensive at home for creative ways to blend your inner chef with your social side.

Mix and Match the Hacks

Here’s the real secret: you don’t have to do all the things, all the time. Sometimes you’ll go for the early-bird deal, sometimes you’ll just split a pizza, and sometimes you’ll get drive-thru after soccer practice with the kids. It’s about being intentional—swapping out autopilot habits for little moments of “Hmm, do I have a coupon for this?” or “Hey, whose birthday is coming up?”

And hey, even if you eat out a little too much this month, don’t stress. Life happens. Next month, try a no-eating-out week (if you’re feeling brave, you might be shocked by the savings). Or just start with one meal—swap lunch out for a homemade wrap, and bank the difference.

The coolest part? You’re not alone. Tons of people are looking for cheap eating out hacks. And the more you share your tricks, the more you’ll pick up from your circle. Next time a friend says, “Let’s go out,” try suggesting a potluck or rotating dinner at home. Who knows—you might start a cheap new tradition that everyone secretly loves.

Conclusion: You’ve Got This

I hope these tips help answer the big question: How to make eating out less expensive? It’s a mix of little moves—timing, ordering smarter, snagging those secret discounts, and sometimes flipping the script and bringing the “restaurant” home. Saving money doesn’t have to mean sacrificing connection, taste, or fun. Honestly, it’s more about the intention—and maybe a willingness to try something a tad different.

What will you try first? Is it coupons, happy hour, or splitting meals? Or maybe finally hosting that laid-back family taco night you’ve meant to start? Test one strategy this week—just one!—and let yourself feel good about the small wins. Eating out is supposed to bring joy. With a sprinkle of creativity (and a dash of frugality), it totally can.

And hey, the next time you score a free cookie or cut your bill in half, think of this post—and maybe share your own hack. Because seriously, life’s too short (and expensive) not to enjoy every bite.