Dining Out

We love to go out to ocassionally eat as a family but the cost to do so can be expensive. Over the years we have discovered some shortcuts to keep the bill down.

1. Look for restaurants where kids eat free. We keep a mental note of what restaurants offer kids eat free and on what night. You can also go to http://www.mykidseatfree.com/ to get a list of restaurants in your area.
2. Look for a dollar menu
3. Skip the kids menu and order a regular entree and split it between the kids. Especially when you are at a restaurant that offers chips and salsa or rolls prior to your meal. My kids seem to fill up even before the entree arrives.
4. Order water or one drink and split between the kids. Most restaurants even fast food offer free refills.
5. Be aware of the kids meal prices before you go. Some kids meal prices are outrageous($3.50 to $ 5 is too much). We like Bob Evans because most of the kids meals are $1.99 and there meal choices are healthier than most.