Always look at your grocery receipts for restaurant (and other) coupons!
Order for one and split it – Most restaurants will split the order for you, so just ask; otherwise ask for an extra plate and split it yourself. If you’re especially hungry and they offer two sizes of meals, order the large and split it. Texas restaurants most often serve larger portions than you can eat in one sitting. Of course, if you’re eating alone, just plan to take the leftovers home for another meal. We recently went to Vernon’s Catfish, ordered the large catfish plate to split, and I had two more lunches out of the leftovers.
Take advantage of the “2 for $”deals. Chili’s offers an appetizer plus 2 entrees for $20, and the selections are pretty good. Drinks not included.
Drink water. You go to a restaurant for the good food, not the drinks. You can get those much cheaper at home or a grocery store. Drink water, perhaps adding a slice of lemon for taste.
Just order side items. A salad and an appetizer can often make for a delicious and affordable meal for one.
Choose an affordable restaurant. There are medium-priced restaurants around that can offer decent meals for a decent price. While there are many ways to save on eating out, one of the best is to start with a restaurant that doesn’t charge exorbitant prices. When in doubt, call the restaurant in advance and ask for the price range for meals.
New restaurants. Often a restaurant that has just opened for business will want to attract new customers with discounts and specials. Watch for ads in newspapers and local magazines (DockLine Magazine often has buy-one-get-one-free ads for restaurants) or other advertising mailings.
Fast food. The cheapest options are often food restaurants, and you can find some fairly healthy options at some of them. Whataburger, Subway or Wendy’s salads, or new healthier sandwiches, vegetarian options at many restaurants these days.
Skip dessert. If you’re eating at a sit-down restaurant, dessert is usually very expensive. Pick up a carton of ice cream on the way home instead – then you’ll have plenty for several desserts.
If you have young children, take advantage of the restaurants that offer “kids eat free” deals. Most restaurants have a maximum age limit of 10 or 12 for the free meals, and they provide one kid’s meal per one adult meal purchased. Be sure to ask before you order! Of course, most of the free kid’s meals are from a Kid’s Menu. Usually, there are specific days when you can get free kid’s meals, so don’t assume it’s an everyday thing! Below are some we found in the Willis/Conroe area:
Special days. Many restaurants will offer special family days, or will allow kids to eat for free, or have special discount days. Call ahead and take advantage of them.
Kids Eat Free at IHOP every day in August from 4 p.m. -10 p.m. Limited Time Only at Participating Restaurants. Receive one free “Just for Kids” meal with each adult entree purchase at IHOP. Free meal valid for kids 12 and under on the “Just for Kids” menu items. Drinks not included unless otherwise specified on “Just for Kids” menu. Not valid with any other discounts or coupons.
Families can enjoy great food and great savings when dining with their kids at Denny’s. Kids eat free on select nights from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Our kids’ menu offers healthy options that are sure to please both kids and parents. Be sure to check the age limit before you order.
Rico’s Authentic Mexican Food, Willis – Kids eat FREE Sundays with purchase of adult meal (1 child per 1 adult)!
Luby’s Cafeteria offers kid’s meal specials on Wednesday and Saturday. All Day Saturday: kids eat FREE with purchase of adult meal! Wednesday after 4:30 p.m. $2 kid’s meal with purchase of adult meal. Dine-in only. Breakfast not included.
James Coney Island Kids Meal Special(s) Available on Wednesday, 4 p.m.-close, 2 kids 10 and under eat free with purchase of adult meal ($4.50 minimum)
Margarita & Peppers Mexican Grill & Bar Kids Meal Special(s) Available on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday – 10 p.m.; one child 10 & under eats FREE per adult entree purchase of $7.99 & up!
Conroe’s Incredible Pizza Company Kids Meal Special(s) Available on Monday – kids ages 4-11 receive the buffet & drink and a $5 game card for only $7.
Mama Juanita’s Mexican Restaurant Kids Meal Special(s) Available on Sunday – kids eat FREE with adult meal purchase!
Wings N More Kids Meal Special(s) Available on Wednesday night – kids 12 & under eat FREE with each adult entree purchase.
And, if you are a Senior Citizen, always ask for the Senior Discount! Ryan’s offers Seniors lunch with a drink for $5.49 and it’s all you can eat. If you really want to get the best deal, go in right before the lunch prices end (4 p.m., I think). That way you can have a nice all-you-can-eat dinner, including drink and dessert. No leftovers permitted, but it’s a real bargain nonetheless.
Another great deal for Senior Citizens is the buy-one-get-one-free at IHOP from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. You both have to order a drink, but if you buy an $8 entree, you automatically save $8 on the second meal.
Some area restaurants also offer Senior Citizens lunch menu prices for dinner dining. Be sure to ask about that option before you order.
