Hidden Discounts Help Diners Live Cheaper
Online Discounts, Coupon Books Offer Meals On Budget
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Delicious dinners and scrumptious sweets can be part of a budget with the best meal deals in the Columbus area and in cities across the country, WCMH-TV reported.
"Two people can go out and enjoy a dinner and have a great time for about $25," said Aaron Leventhal of the High Street Guide published in the Columbus area.
The High Street Guide is a free coupon book packed with savings for some of the area's most popular restaurants.
Mozart's, a Columbus restaurant, couldn't be happier with the business the guide brings in.
A nice evening out doesn't mean you have to break the bank, according to Anand Saha of Mozart's. Saha recommends having dinner at home and treating yourself to dessert somewhere else.
Dining experts urge frugal customers to eat out early for special deals. Price-conscious consumers should also be aware of high markups on restaurant alcohol.
There are also options for consumers who want to support their local businesses and still save money.
For example, The Clarmont is one of 17 restaurants to offer the Columbus Originals Passport.
The passport offers a $400 incentive to eat out. The $400 incentive translates into a 20 percent discount off each meal at each restaurant.
"Any little program you can come up with to entice someone to come through your front door," said Thom Coffman of The Clarmont, "it's worth doing."
Consumers can also cut back on a dinner bill by sharing an entrée or ordering from the appetizer menu.
Vegetarian and ethnic foods are also typically less expensive.
Experts recommend looking for restaurants that feature a frequent diner program.
For less than $100 per year, diners at Strada World Cuisine in Columbus can reap a 25 percent discount on all food and catering.
"In this economic climate, you don't see a lot of return on your investments," said Cheryl Rodeheffer of Strada. "It's a great program with immediate gratification."
Similar frequent diner programs can be found at various restaurants across the country for frugal consumers with diverse tastes.
Experts also claim there are many deals to find online, WCMH-TV reported.
Many restaurants only advertise online and the deals are often free. Consumers simply need to click, print and save.
With a little planning, consumers can easily decrease the total of a dinner bill before taking a bite.
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