Soft launches and late sittings - six ways to get cheaper meals out

As the cost of living continues to rise, many Brits are opting to dine out less frequently, according to YouGov's latest Dining Out report. In response to this situation, restaurants are employing various strategies to make meals more affordable for customers. Here are six ways to save money when dining out.

Points, freebies, discounts, and birthday treats are among the perks offered by numerous restaurants to retain customers. The Pizza Express Club is a prime example, where regular diners can progress through bronze, silver, and gold tiers to unlock rewards like free dough balls and complimentary drinks.

Restaurants often aim to fill seats during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, which can result in lower prices. Apps like First Table, available in 21 UK cities and beyond, offer up to 50% off food when diners book a restaurant's first or last dining slot, albeit at a small booking fee. Similarly, EatClub provides up to 50% off entire bills at thousands of venues when users redeem offers through their app, with the biggest discounts typically during off-peak times.

For families and breakfast enthusiasts, many restaurants offer discounted meals, particularly during school holidays. These deals can range from free or £1 meals for children eating with paying adults to special offers at supermarkets and even garden centers. Some new restaurants may provide discounts as a way to entice customers and generate buzz during their soft opening period. Keep an eye on newsletters to stay informed about upcoming openings in your area.

Soft launches, which allow new restaurants to test their concept while keeping costs low, are an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious diners. These discounted openings can last several weeks and may eventually become permanent for quieter days like Mondays.

Loyalty programs through supermarket chains, such as Tesco Clubcard points, can also be exchanged for vouchers to use at participating restaurants. For example, each 50p earned in Tesco Clubcard points can be converted into £1.50 in vouchers for use at Prezzo Italian venues, as well as many other participating restaurants.

Lastly, consider turning to takeout or surplus food apps like Too Good To Go or Olio, which allow customers to purchase food that would otherwise go to waste at a fraction of its original cost. While these apps involve a bit of uncertainty, the potential savings on items you'd purchase anyway can help stretch your dining budget further.