With a bit of Planning, you can Dine out and be Frugal

Eating out is a real treat. There’s a certain value, beyond the strictly monetary, to being waited upon, being served, and not having to do the labor of prepping, cooking and cleaning up. Even in today’s economy, families still enjoy a night out every now and then.

Here are some ways to get the best bang for your buck while enjoying a night of good food, relaxation and family time.

• Choose restaurants offering “free" or "discounted" kids’ meals. Most chain restaurants have such a program. Some offer entertainment in the form of a cartoon character or in the case of Appleby's a clown who makes balloon animals. (Restaurants listed below offer FREE kids meals unless otherwise noted.)

Tuesday: Appleby’s ($2.99 meal), Perkins

Thursday: Perkins (character night)

Friday: IHOP

Sunday: Fiesta Ole, Boston’s (with character), Dickey’s BBQ Pit

Everyday: Pizza Hut (under 3 is always free)

Each restaurant has different restrictions and requirements, so make sure to check them out before you go.

• Use to save big bucks. For only a few dollars, you can purchase gift certificates to your favorite local restaurants and pay a fraction of what you’d typically pay. Once you buy a gift certificate, you'll receive further discount offers, worth up to as much as 90 percent off future Restaurant.com purchases. 

• Invest in a local coupon book such as KidStuff or Entertainment. Most schools sell these in the fall as fundraisers. For a few bucks upfront, you can save a bundle throughout the year. Before going out to dinner, flip through the coupons and decide on your destination based on the best savings for your family.

• Watch the local ads for coupons to restaurants. For example, Perkins often includes ads offering discounts on meals. Valpak and Coupon Clipper offer great local discounts to restaurants. Also, check restaurants' Web sites for specials and printable coupons.

• Be smart in your dining. You don’t need to order appetizers, desserts and fancy drinks to have a nice dining experience. Keep it simple. Order your entrée and get water with lemon rather than a soft drink or iced tea.

Every dollar adds up. Sticking to the basics will allow you and your family the opportunity to eat out more regularly and more frugally.