6 Smart Hacks to Dine Out Cheap: Free Kids Meals, Loyalty Perks & More!

Eating out at restaurants has become more expensive for many families in the UK, especially as the cost of living continues to rise. According to a recent YouGov survey, more than a third of people in Britain are cutting back on restaurant visits. This is because the prices of food, energy, wages, and taxes have all gone up, forcing restaurants to raise their prices. However, there are still several smart ways to enjoy meals out without spending too much. Here are six practical tips to help you save money while dining out.

First, take advantage of loyalty programs and reward schemes. Many restaurants want to keep their customers coming back, so they offer points, discounts, and even free treats. For example, Pizza Express has a club where you can move up from bronze to gold status, unlocking perks like free dough balls and complimentary drinks. Nando's uses a chilli system for its loyalty program, and other schemes like Tastecard offer discounts at hundreds of restaurants for an annual fee. These programs can make eating out more affordable and rewarding, especially if you visit the same places often.

Another way to save is by choosing to eat at less busy times. Restaurants often offer discounts for early or late diners to fill seats outside of peak hours. Apps like First Table let you book the first or last dining slot at a restaurant and get 50 percent off your food, though you pay a small booking fee. EatClub is another app that gives walk-in customers up to 50 percent off their bill at thousands of venues, especially during off-peak times. Early dining can be quieter and more relaxed, and breakfast meetups are usually cheaper since they involve just one course.

Families with children can benefit from 'kids eat free' deals, especially during school holidays. Many big chains like TGI Fridays, supermarket cafes such as Morrisons and Asda, and even some garden centers offer free or £1 meals for kids when adults pay for their meals. Some of these deals are available all year round, not just during holidays.

If you like trying new places, look out for 'soft launches' when new restaurants open. During these periods, restaurants often offer discounts to attract customers and spread the word. These soft launches can last for several weeks and are a great way to enjoy high-quality food at a lower price. Signing up for newsletters that list new restaurant openings in your area can help you stay informed about these deals.

Supermarket loyalty points can also be used to save money on meals out. For example, Tesco Clubcard points can be exchanged for vouchers at restaurants like Prezzo, making your points go further. Finally, surplus food apps like Too Good To Go and Olio let you buy leftover food from restaurants and shops at a fraction of the usual price. While you might not know exactly what you'll get, it's a great way to save money and reduce food waste.

By using these six strategies—joining loyalty programs, dining at off-peak times, taking advantage of kids' deals, attending soft launches, using supermarket points, and trying surplus food apps—you can enjoy eating out without worrying too much about the cost. These tips can help you make the most of your dining experiences while keeping your budget in check.