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1. Don’t Fall for Menu Design Tricks
Ever notice how restaurants make the most expensive items look extra fancy on the menu?
That’s not an accident—it’s psychology, and it works if you’re not paying attention.
Here’s how to outsmart it before your wallet cries:
Avoid eye-catching boxes or highlighted sections. They’re designed to lure you into pricey picks.
Stick to the simplest items. They’re often made fresh and cost less.
Check for price anchors. that $40 steak is there to make the $25 burger seem cheap.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Take 30 seconds to scan the full menu first, then pick based on price after you’ve decided what you actually want.
2. Skip the “Specials” (They’re Not Always Cheaper)
You see the word “special” and think “deal,” right?
Not always. Sometimes it’s just a way to sell what didn’t move yesterday.
So next time you see it, remember this:
Ask the server about pricing first. Many “specials” aren’t even discounted.
Avoid seafood specials on Mondays. The fresh catch might not be that fresh.
Check if it’s portioned smaller. You might be paying the same for less.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Before ordering, just ask, “Is this special cheaper than the regular menu item?” and decide from there.
3. Stick to Lunch Specials or Early-Bird Deals
Eating earlier can literally save you money.
Restaurants drop prices during slower hours, and you still get the same food. just cheaper.
Here’s how to take advantage of it:
Go before 6 PM to catch early-bird pricing.
Look for weekday lunch menus that have smaller portions at lower costs.
Make it a tradition. A weekly “cheap eats night” can save big in the long term.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Pick one lunch or dinner out a week, and always choose a place offering time-based discounts.
Make It Easy: Use a compact planner to jot down restaurants with weekday specials near you.
4. Skip Drinks and Order Water Instead
Ordering a soda or cocktail might not seem like much… until you realize you just spent $15 on liquids.
Water’s not boring. It’s budget-friendly and saves you cash for the meal itself.
Here’s what you’ll love about sticking to water:
It’s free. and still refreshing when you add lemon.
You’ll feel less bloated than with sugary drinks.
It adds up fast. skipping drinks can save $50+ a month.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Order water right away before anyone even asks. That way you won’t be tempted.
5. Avoid Appetizers and Extra Add-Ons
That extra side of fries or cheesy dip seems harmless… until your bill suddenly doubles.
Restaurants make most of their profits from those tempting little “add-ons.”
So if you want to eat smart, here’s how to do it:
Stick to your main dish. It’s usually filling enough.
Say no to “Would you like to add bacon?” those $3 add-ons add up fast.
Share sides if you really want something extra.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Before ordering, decide exactly what you’ll eat. and tell yourself “no extras” when the server offers.
6. Split Desserts Instead of Ordering One Each
You don’t need your own slice of cake to end the night right.
Sharing lets you satisfy the craving and cut the bill. a win-win.
Here’s how to make it just as sweet:
Order one dessert for the table. It still feels indulgent.
Ask for extra spoons. It makes sharing easy and fun.
Enjoy it slowly. You’ll appreciate it more when it’s shared.
👉 Here’s How You’ll Do It: Next time you’re out, suggest splitting dessert as a group move. Everyone saves, and no one feels deprived.
Hey, I'm Lily! I'm a mom who's really good at two things: stretching a dollar and talking about stretching a dollar. I created Money Vice after one too many grocery trips where I watched my total climb and thought, "There's gotta be a better way." Spoiler: there is. Think of me as your money-savvy friend who's always got a tip (and coffee in hand).
