As I look for ways to save money so that I can pay for health insurance some time later this year, I have been scanning blogs that publish financial tips. One such blog advises that you get used to grocery store food. I cannot imagine a more unpalatable way to save money. It makes financial sense but not culinary sense. Maybe I am just too accustomed to good food. I rarely eat anything out of a can and I have to force myself to accept frozen food.
But there are ways to cut costs when you eat out that most people don't think about. For example, many restaurants have specials which save you money. If you keep a calendar showing which of your favorite restaurants have specials you can plan occasional evenings out for a modest budget and still enjoy good food.
You can also think about portion sizes. Sometimes it makes more sense to order a large meal with a couple of extra sides and then splitting the main dish between two people. This way the restaurant still makes money and you save money at the same time.
My wife once suggested to me that we could save money if we have lunch at Sam's Club. She was joking because of course I am working during lunch and I get my food for free at work. But we were in Sam's the other day and I did realize you could eat a pretty large fast food lunch there for just a few dollars. If you're really spending money on fast food you should look at less expensive alternatives from shopping clubs like Sam's, Costco, and BJs.
Subway also offers some good deals. If you can stomach their factory bread (at least made fresh in the store) they will make a sandwich for you with the toppings you want. It's not prepackaged or frozen food and if they are having a special that saves you $1-2 per sandwich it is a good alternative to more expensive restaurant food.
Eating out should be a special time for friends and family. It is too expensive for you to do this every day unless you know of a really inexpensive buffet. But frankly I find that many buffets offer bland, cheap food. I don't really enjoy them. It is better to learn how to cook a few inexpensive meals and then gradually add to your culinary repertoire. Saving money is more important these days because we live in uncertain times.
