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How to dine out and still save

Friday, May 08, 2009

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MID-MICHIGAN (WJRT) -- (05/07/09) -- Who doesn't love a night out? Better yet, who doesn't love a night out at a discount?

The ABC 12 Money Source Team and our Liz Dueweke have the lowdown on some local restaurant deals.

From local bars to upscale eateries and even food for the little ones, we've found some way to keep both your stomach and your wallet full.

It's no secret that during tough times fewer people are dining out. "My husband works for GM and we're trying to save a few bucks everywhere we can," said one woman.

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"I would probably go out more if it were cheaper; discounts and stuff like that," said another shopper.

"We were fortunate. We're not quite at the point where we have to say no but we're just going out a little less often."

Yet there are a few secrets to enjoying an affordable meal around Mid-Michigan

Some use coupons while others split the meal and get an appetizer.

The Torch Bar and Brill in Flint is a local staple. "We're known for our burgers," Ron Sims said.

If you crave one of their specialties, you can get it for close to nothing if you head to the Internet first.

The Torch is one of a handful of area hangouts offering discount gift certificates on restaurants.com

"We were approached about two years ago. It's been pretty successful," Sims said.

With some deals over half off, loyal customers swear by it.

"For people who thought we were closed, they're rediscovering it. For the new people coming in for something downtown, they didn't know was downtown," said Sims.

Search the site by city or zip code to bring up participating restaurants like Remington's, Maxis and the Torch.

With a click of the mouse, you can instantly buy, print and most importantly, save.

"For our regular customers, it gives them a chance for being a regular customer," Sims said.

And regular customers bring with them Loyalty that's helped keep this favorite eatery afloat. "We get several new customers. We probably get two or three new customers a week with restaurants.com.

Also on the Web is kidsmealdeals.com. The site breaks down by zip code, locating restaurants featuring discounts exclusively on children's meals.

National chains like Applebee's, McDonalds and Subway participate. The Web site is even expanding soon to include a search by food type, accommodating the pickiest of eaters.

On the other side of town, and the dining spectrum, is Grand Blanc's da Edoardo.

Reporter: How's business?

Ed Barbieri, da Edoardo: OK. Nothing great. Not breaking any records, but we are hanging in there.

This Italian eatery is getting creative to make sure people continue coming in. One lure is the da Edoardo diner's club card. For a one-time $25 fee, the card takes 10 percent off every bill for the year.

It's a program owner Ed Barbieri says works for Metro Detroit restaurants, and he started it at his Genesee County location about a month ago.

"In this economy you have to give something to get something, and people are hurting right now. So if you work with them, they'll work with you."

There's nothing more delicious than saving money, especially if you know how to do it before that tab leaves a bitter taste in your mouth.

Looking for more restaurant coupons? Don't forget about the ABC12 Restaurant Guide.