Dining out in restaurants is one of the first luxuries to take a back seat in tough economic times. A year ago you might have splurged on a pricey Italian meal, but today that indulgence might be replaced by a homemade lasagna--with gourmet cheese. Where are you saving money on food? What are you splurging on? Have your eating habits changed with the economy?
Yes, I'm still saving money even though I'm buying premium brands for home cooked meals. (15.8%)
No, I am eating out less and also trying to save on groceries. (61.1%)
My dining out habits remain unchanged. (23.1%)
i feel tha buying the same brand that you are use to are the best coupon saves
I am dining out less to save money and because I prefer to cook meals myself. I can make the meal exactly the way my husband and I like and we can have the same meal tomorrow if we choose. Concerning groceries, I take more time to ask myself If I really need something or if I am just buying to much at once. I try only to buy what I need at the time, instead of purchasing everything simply because it is on sale. After 10 of the same items it is no longer a good deal for me so, I only buy what I need.
We've gone from eating out or ordering food 2-3 times a week to me making meals for my family 3-5 nights a week and having enough for left overs 1-2 days a week. If there's a little extra we'll order out but it's much less often now. Between making shopping lists, buying sale items, using coupons, buying in bulk, and planning meals ahead, we've been able to save up to $200 each month.
We joined a 'rewards network' program where we get cash back for dining out at some of our favorite local places. It's really fun to be able to dine out and then see a CREDIT back on my card for 10 - 15% of the total bill a few days later. And it was free to join.
We are eating out less, trying to save money. But will still go out to dinner on date night or special occ.
If we do go out to eat, which is not as often as it used to be, I make sure I have a COUPON for the restarant: as well as for my grocery shopping.
We hardly ever eat out. It's cheaper but especially it's healthier.
economy is bad so its perferable to eat out less. but occasionally i go to my fave restaurant and enjoy nice food without having to cook at home. Red Lobster... yum!
I find we are doing a little bit more eating at home than normal but on the whole still going out for dinners.
I pack lunches for the hubby every day and we try not to eat out more than once a month. This does not include a late night snack if we have been at the lab all evening and we spend less then 10 dollars on fast food once a week. I am enjoying cooking meals and trying new recipes now that I have the time.