9 Secrets to Saving Money on Dining Out

2) Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs and Memberships

Loyalty programs are designed to create return customers and drive transactions. The perks for the actual patrons include rewards after milestone purchases and a greater sense of appreciation from the establishment. While loyalty programs are not necessarily discounts right away, the tracking of regular purchases will pay off in the long run with free products, meals, and merchandise. Memberships function in the same way, however patrons who sign up will typically receive monthly or weekly emails with percentage off discounts, free or reduced price merchandise, and special birthday and holiday rewards. Membership programs often work on a point system, in which case the customer can accumulate points to use in a similar fashion as cash at the designated restaurant or location.