DINE OUT FOR LESS!

So the economy is in the toilet and discretionary expenses are often the first to go. Like dining out.

Now I don't mean typical dashboard dining like a drive-through restaurant, I mean dining out in a place where you actually sit down and order off a menu.

Can you still afford to eat out? Yes, if you know how to do it right!

DISCOUNT COUPONS: Many restaurants today are struggling with the economy and they will offer discount coupons on their websites or in the money mailer and Val-Pak coupon packs you get in the mail. So check that out. Oftentimes you will find deals like buy one entree and get the second free or for half off.

EARLY BIRD SPECIALS: Consider early-bird specials if you can -- particularly on weekends. Oftentimes if you visit a restaurant before 5 p.m., there is a menu which includes a good selection of items -- often with appetizers and dessert -- at a much more affodable price.

SKIP THE DRINKS: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages add up. Water is better for you anyway so you can save a good $3 to $5 a person by ordering water with lemon or lime.

SHARE APPETIZERS OR DESSERT: Nowadays most restaurants you go to offer huge portions and most of us leave with a doggie bag. So the question is, do you really need an appetizer and dessert? If so, then consider sharing them instead of ordering one per person.

READ THE MENU CLOSELY: My boyfriend and I love going to PF Chang's, where most of the entrees are $15 to $20 and up. The last time we were there, we noticed these noodle dishes that were less than $10 and included shrimp and beef. And they were great! So read the entire menu as you will often find some bargains on there!

TRY A FEW APPETIZERS: Oftentimes if I'm not that hungry, I will order two appetizers instead of an entree and the total comes out less than if I were to order an entree.

CONSIDER DESSERT ELSEWHERE: Do you really need the dessert? Does your waistline? And if you are absolutely craving dessert, maybe skip the $8 cake at the restaurant and stop in a Carvel or ice cream shop on the way home for a sweet treat that costs a lot less! Better yet, buy a cake from the bakery in your supermarket and you get a whole week's worth of dessert for the price of one dessert in a restaurant!

DOGGIE BAGGING IT: As I said previously, oftentimes restaurants give huge portions for entrees. So stretch those dollars and bring some home. Tonight's dinner can also do double-duty as tomorrow's lunch and you save money there as well!

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS: Sure you have a favorite restaurant, but maybe you want to check out some of the others in town which may be more affordable, offer dining coupons, or larger portions. Ask around and check with friends, family, and co-workers to see what dining spots they feel offer the greatest deals.

THINK BUFFET: If you have hearty eaters in your clan, you might want to try a buffet. Those Chinese all-you-can-eat buffets are a great value if you tend to eat a lot.

And here's a bonus tip: Alter your mealtimes! If you love going to a certain restaurant, but their prices are a little beyond your reach, consider visiting for a meal other than dinner like lunch or brunch. You still get to soak up the same ambiance, don't have to cook, and clean up, and get to save money at the same time!