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    10 ways to save big at restaurants

    By | Shine Food – Thu, Mar 5, 2009 12:58 AM EST

    If you're like me, you love dining out and would sooner sacrifice cable and cell phones before you're willing to throw in the restaurant towel. Thankfully, there are cheap ways to do it, without having to make major sacrifices. Now is the time to learn how to love eating out for less and here are some tips to get you started.

    1. Learn to share
    Unless you're at a super fancy restaurant, where pasta portions are the size of a fist, there's no reason (and no excuse) not to split. The typical American portion size feeds two people. It's time we got a little more portion conscious, anyway.

    2. Ditch the bottled water
    Many restaurants filter their tap water so bottled water is a wasted expense.

    3. Become an early bird
    Restaurants often extend deals to early diners. Call ahead to find out about early-bird or happy hour specials.

    4. Belly-up to the bar
    Bar menus are becoming increasingly more sophisticated and delicious. 9 times out of 10, they're also cheaper.

    5. Doggy-bag it
    There is no shame in taking home leftovers and with a little creativity, you can whip up a few new meals out of last nights dinner.

    6. Brush up on your comedy act
    Chat it up with the staff and extra points if you can make them laugh with you. While you're at it, ask if there's a mailing list with specials and discounts for loyal customers.

    7. Make Sunday the new Friday
    Many restaurants are jumping on the discounted "Sunday supper" bandwagon. Call ahead and inquire.

    8. Make sides the new appetizer
    Sides can be just as big and just as good as appetizers. Don't be shy and ask for your side to come first.

    9. Do group dinners
    Call ahead to find out if there are special menus for big parties. Most restaurants want the business and will work with you to find a comfortable price. So, sharpen those negotiation skills.

    10. BYOB
    We all know restaurants charge an arm and a leg for drinks. Find out the best BYOB establishments near you and bring your favorite inexpensive bottle of wine.

    Related Links:
    How Eric Ripert's makes a 5-dollar fillet, gourmet
    Super quick, easy and cheap party appetizers

    Photo Credit: Getty Images

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