For the past few months, I've told you how to juggle work schedules, busy family lives, and a tight budget to achieve the nearly impossible prepare a healthy meal without breaking the bank. Now it's time for a reward. It's time for takeout! Keep the following tips in mind as you prepare for your next night out.
Spend locally
You've only got so many dollars to spend, so spend wisely. Examine your priorities before you pull out that menu. Would you rather spend a few dollars at a global fast food chain, or invest your takeout dollars in a local, family-owned restaurant? It's your choice!
Our favorite restaurants are all local. We know the managers and owners, and they all live in and contribute to our local communities. Because their survival depends on customer loyalty, the food and service are always excellent. Can you say the same about your favorite fast-food joint? For just a few dollars more than a fast-food burger, we can get a great meal cooked to order and also support the local economy.
Appetizers? Yum!
Spend just a few dollars at a restaurant? It's not impossible. We spend about $10-$15 per meal out, and these meals feed two adults with leftovers. How do we do this? By ordering judiciously off the appetizer menu when possible, or ordering our food in the most cost-efficient manner.
When we visit our favorite hoagie or Italian restaurant, I might get an order of chicken wings off