1. Share dishes.
Chances are, the restaurants your grandkids like (and that welcome them) are family dining places with large servings, even from the kids’ menu. Ask your server for extra plates, providing there isn't a charge for them, and split the portions. The bonus: more variety on everyone’s plate and less food wasted.
2. Let the kids eat free.
Search sites like kidsmealdeals.com for offers from eateries in your area. At places such as Denny’s and Lone Star Steakhouse & Saloon, kids eat free with a paying adult on certain days. IHOP, Golden Corral, Red Robin, and Roadhouse Grill also offer occasional specials.
3. Go for the discounts.
Some restaurant chains offer senior discounts starting at age 55. Also look for coupons and grand opening specials at new restaurants in town. Seinfeld's parents' friends shouldn't be the only ones enjoying early-bird menus that feature lower prices before the dinner rush. The grandkids will want to eat early, anyway.
4. Take it to go.
Chains like Outback Steakhouse and Applebee’s have takeout. If you just want to avoid cooking, pick up your order yourself, save the 15 percent for the server's tip, and forgo the cost of drinks. Restaurant markups on soft drinks can be several times what you paid for the sodas in your 'fridge.
5. Or just don’t eat out.
Pack a picnic for a road trip; it’s more fun and you save by skipping pricey rest-stop eateries. You can brown-bag exactly what your grandkids enjoy so you won’t have to fret about feeding fussy eaters on the road.
Want more penny-pinching ideas? Check out the rest of our Monday Money Savers.
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