If you’re of the opinion that drinks are overpriced when eating out, you’re definitely not alone. There’s a large community of people who think the same.
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The extreme marked-up prices are disheartening yet, we indulge because we’re told we are paying for the ambiance the place offers and not just the drink. Fortunately, you’ll find useful hacks to curb how much you spend on drinks in this article.
Share a Refillable Drink
Now, this won’t work for you if you eat out alone. But if you’re looking to save money off those expensive drinks, you should go with someone and share a refillable drink.
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This works because when one person orders a drink instead of two, you can ask for an extra glass. If you don’t need an extra, you can simply pass the drink back and forth. Since it’s a refillable drink, you can refill as much as you like without incurring extra charges.
Happy Hour Hunting
Many restaurants and bars have a period where they offer discounts on drinks. So, look up restaurants and bars that offer these discounts and plan for it, so you don’t miss it.
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When you find your discount places and times, keep an eye on the clock and make sure you order before the time elapses. Some are very strict on the cut-off time and don’t extend the discounts after.
Bring Your Own Bottle
This is an interesting way to enjoy your wines while dining out without spending so much in the restaurant. Although not all restaurants allow this, carry on if you find the ones that do.
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There is usually a corkage fee for using their glasses and staff’s services and these prices vary across different restaurants. No matter how much the fee is, it still won’t be as expensive as buying a drink there.
Water Wisdom
Whether you’re eating out or at home, you need water. Now, you can incorporate this more deliberately into your eating. Start your meal with a glass of water and drink water at intervals as you eat.
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You can also sip water between your drinks or beverages. This would keep you hydrated and full and you won’t have to spend so much on drinks.
Loyalty Programs
Regular customers should be rewarded and what better way to do that than loyalty programs? Simply sign up for it and watch your points grow each time you dine at the restaurant.
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These points, when accumulated over time, can be converted into various rewards. It could be free drinks, discounted meals, and other exclusive offers. Either way, it would save you some money.
Discount Gift Cards
This is another amazing hack for saving your money. You can purchase these gift cards at a discount during special promotions and use them to pay for your meals and drinks. Since you purchased them at a discount, you’ll save money on the total cost.
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Make sure to buy from reputable sellers to avoid scams. Also, keep an eye on their expiry dates so you can use them before then and enjoy their full value.
Skip the Soda
If you’re looking for one of the most marked-up items in a restaurant, you’ve found it – Soda! You can totally skip this and opt for water. Not only is it healthier, it is usually free.
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When you skip this, you avoid spending money, paying so much more than what the soda is worth. If plain water does not work for you, flavor your water by adding a slice of lemon or lime and enjoy a refreshing taste.
Dine During Special Promotions
Restaurants use this to attract customers and discounted or complimentary drinks are a part of it. They may come as promotional events, seasonal offers, or new menu launches but they all lead to your saving money.
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This helps a lot because even drinks you won’t order normally because of the price would be available at a discount. So, take advantage of such deals when they come up.
Non-Alcoholic Alternatives
The non-alcoholic versions of cocktails are called mocktails and it comes at a lower cost because it does not include the cost of spirits.
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If it’s not readily available, the bartenders can make one for you. You can also enjoy this with food and if you don’t know what exactly to order, ask for recommendations or pairings that best go with your meal.
Smaller Portions
You can have a half glass of wine or a smaller cocktail, just to enjoy the taste of your favorite drinks without spending too much. Not all restaurants offer this option but, it’s a money-saving hack.
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So, when you get to a restaurant, ask your server if they offer that. Even if they don’t advertise it, they might be willing to accommodate your request.
Dessert Drinks
They usually combine the flavors of dessert with the enjoyment of a drink. So, you have dessert in a glass. Opting for this satisfies two cravings: A dessert, and a drink, even though you made just one order.
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This is a brilliant hack to save money and also enjoy a unique experience. You can get the most out of this when it’s a special treat at the restaurant and discounted.
