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Dining Out On a Budget

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Everyday Living

Dining out has been getting increasingly expensive over the years, making dinner outings or dates stressful. Or maybe you forgot your lunch, so you need to pick up food along the way. If you have low funds, dining out can be stressful. Below are some tips on how to be mindful when dining out. 

  • Fast food doesn’t equal cheap 

Unfortunately, fast food isn’t immune to inflating prices. Some fast-food combos cost just as much as an entrée at a sit-down restaurant. It’s actually less expensive to get Eat’n Park’s Superburger Meal Deal than it is to get Dav’s Single Combo at Wendy’s! Dollar menus are also becoming relics of the past. While there are limited options at various fast-food restaurants, most places require full-priced purchases in order to unlock the $1 items. 

A tip you can use to save money at fast-food restaurants is to download their apps. Most chain restaurants have mobile apps, and they’ll offer deals and point systems to get free food.  

  • Look at the menu ahead of time 

Planning what you’ll eat ahead of time prevents you from making choices based on hunger. It helps you figure out what’s best for your budget without feeling pressured to make a quick decision.  

  • Don’t be ashamed to not order an entrée 

Oftentimes we feel pressure to conform to a traditional structure when dining out. When people dine at restaurants, they typically order an entrée. However, if you're dining out on a budget, it might be worth it to break the mold. Some appetizers are big enough to be an entire meal, and they’re cheaper than an entrée. Ordering on the salad menu is usually cheaper as well. In the long run, creativity can save you money and prevent your wallet from hurting.

A tip you can use to save money at restaurants is to look for their Happy Hour or Late Night specials! Places such as Applebee's run deals that get you half-price apps after a certain hour. 

  • Consider restaurant cuisines 

Some restaurants may be cheaper or more expensive depending on the types of food they serve. Japanese food tends to be expensive because of the specialized ingredients and food prep. Italian restaurants also tend to be costly, but they do serve big portions. However, Mexican and Chinese foods are usually inexpensive because of their ingredients, and you get a good portion for your money. Avoid the expensive cuisines if you’re low on funds. 

  • Restaurant specials 

If the restaurant offers a special, take advantage of it. Ordering the special of the day can save you a couple of dollars. If you’re early enough, utilize the lunch or happy hour menu. Lunch menus are much cheaper than dinner menus and are typically served until 3 or 4 p.m. depending on the restaurant. 

  • Avoid desserts 

Ah, yes, dessert — the most looked forward to segment of a meal. However, ordering dessert at a restaurant can be a money trap and should be avoided except for special occasions. For example, a restaurant may sell you a slice of pie for $4, but you could buy a whole cherry pie at Walmart for $6 and get at least eight slices out of it. There are many examples of this, so be mindful if you decide to order a treat. 

A tip you can use to save money on desserts is to buy a full-sized dessert at the grocery store — share it with friends on a special occasion or store it in your freezer or fridge to enjoy gradually. 

Geneva students can also take advantage of the excellent dessert options in Alexander Dining Hall or use flex points at the Brig to stock up their dorm room. It may not be dining out, but it is a money saver! 

 

There are many ways you can save money while dining out on a tight budget. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can maneuver your way to a good deal. 

By Elizabeth Kyle ‘24 

Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.

Sep 2, 2025

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