15 Ways People Waste Money at Restaurants (And How to Avoid It)

Dining out can be a great way to enjoy good food and a change of scenery, but it’s easy to spend more money than necessary. From ordering extras to picking pricey items, many small choices can quickly add up, turning a nice meal into an expensive outing. 

Understanding some of the common spending habits at restaurants can help you save money and make dining out more enjoyable. Here are 15 ways people often waste money at restaurants, with tips on how to avoid them.

Ordering Expensive Drinks

Ordering multiple drinks can easily double the cost of your meal. Specialty cocktails, craft beers, and even soft drinks are often marked up significantly. Many people end up spending more on beverages than on their food without realizing it. 

If you’re dining out to save, stick to water or limit yourself to one drink. Bringing a friend to share a pitcher or bottle can also cut costs. Skipping or minimizing your drink order is one of the easiest ways to save money.

Getting Appetizers They Don’t Need

Appetizers can be tempting, but they’re often unnecessary, especially if your main dish is filling. Restaurants know appetizers add to the bill, so they offer enticing choices to start your meal. Many people end up ordering appetizers out of habit, without really being hungry for them. 

If you do want an appetizer, consider sharing one with your group rather than ordering individually. For a budget-friendly meal, go straight to the main course. This saves room (and money) for dessert, if that’s your preference.

Opting for Expensive Entrees

Many people feel tempted to try the restaurant’s most expensive dish, but high prices don’t always mean better quality or taste. Often, there are mid-range items that are just as delicious as the pricier choices. 

Instead of automatically going for the costliest entree, check reviews or ask your server for recommendations. Consider splitting a larger entree with a friend if you really want to try something upscale. This way, you get the experience without breaking the bank.

Adding Extra Sides

Adding extra sides may seem harmless, but those small charges can add up quickly. Many sides, like fries, salad, or sauces, come at a premium, especially at upscale or à la carte restaurants. People often add sides without considering how filling their main meal is. 

If your dish already comes with sides, stick with what’s included. Another option is to share sides among the group to reduce costs. Cutting back on unnecessary extras can make a noticeable difference.

Choosing Premium Ingredients or Toppings

Restaurants often offer premium add-ons like truffle oil, avocado, or bacon at an additional charge. These extras may sound appealing, but they can quickly increase the price of your dish. 

Most people don’t realize that small additions can sometimes make a meal more expensive than they expected. If you’re dining out to save, think twice before adding extras. Try sticking to the dish as it’s listed on the menu, or split premium toppings with a friend. This allows you to enjoy your meal without extra expenses.

Splurging on Desserts

Desserts are often marked up significantly in restaurants, making them a costly way to end your meal. Many people feel obligated to order dessert as a treat, even if they’re already full. Consider skipping the restaurant dessert and opting for a treat elsewhere, or save money by sharing a dessert with your dining companion. 

If you’re craving something sweet, head to a local bakery after your meal for a more budget-friendly option. Reducing or skipping dessert altogether can save you more than you’d expect.

Falling for Limited-Time Specials

Limited-time offers or seasonal dishes can be tempting, but they’re often priced higher due to the “special” factor. Many diners think they’re getting something unique, but the markup may not reflect the actual quality of the dish. 

Before ordering a special, ask your server what makes it different from regular menu items. Sometimes, it’s just a small twist on a classic dish at a higher price. Sticking to the regular menu can help you avoid overspending on something that may not be worth the extra cost.

Tipping Generously Without a Check

Many people tip automatically without reviewing their check first, especially when they’re in a rush. Some restaurants add gratuity to larger parties, which means you could accidentally double-tip if you don’t notice. 

Take a moment to look at the check before deciding on your tip amount. If gratuity has already been added, you can save by skipping an additional tip. Being mindful about tipping helps ensure you’re not overpaying without realizing it.

Paying for Bread Baskets or Chips

Some restaurants charge for bread baskets, chips, or other small starters, even though they’re often complimentary in other places. Many diners assume these items are free, only to be surprised by the extra cost on their bill. 

Before you dig in, check with your server to see if there’s a charge for these items. If there is, you can skip them and save a bit on your meal. It’s a small step, but it can add up over time, especially if you dine out often.

Ordering Bottled Water

Restaurants often mark up bottled water considerably, making it an expensive option compared to tap water. Many diners automatically order bottled water, thinking it’s better or safer. In most places, tap water is perfectly safe and comes at no extra cost. 

To save, simply ask for tap water instead. Over time, choosing tap water instead of bottled can save you a surprising amount, especially if you’re dining out regularly.

Buying Sides of Sauce

While it might seem minor, ordering additional sauces or dressings often comes with an extra charge. Many diners don’t realize that a small side of sauce can cost just as much as a full side dish. 

If you’re ordering sauce, ask if there’s an additional charge before committing. Sometimes, you can request extra sauce on the side at no additional cost. Small adjustments like this add up, leaving more money in your pocket.

Going for “Upsized” Portions

Upsizing or ordering larger portions may sound like a good deal, but you may end up with more food than you can eat. Many diners agree to upsized portions simply because it’s offered by the server. 

If you’re likely to leave food behind, consider sticking to regular portions. Splitting larger portions with a friend is another good option. Avoiding upsized orders helps you save money and prevents food waste.

Over-Ordering for Leftovers

Planning to take home leftovers can seem like a money-saving tactic, but it often leads to overspending. Many diners order extra dishes for the sake of leftovers, forgetting that restaurant meals are often more expensive than home cooking. 

To save, order only what you can finish during the meal. You can always go back or cook something similar at home for much less. Limiting your order reduces your bill and keeps you from over-ordering.

Getting Enticed by Branded Menus

Some restaurants partner with popular brands or chefs to offer exclusive dishes that come at a premium price. Many diners feel curious or excited to try these branded items, even if they’re similar to regular menu items. 

Before ordering, consider if the branded dish truly offers something unique. Often, these options are pricier without being significantly different. Opting for regular menu items helps avoid unnecessary markups.

Dining During Peak Times

Restaurants are usually more expensive during peak hours or special days, as many run weekend or holiday pricing. If you’re dining out on a tight budget, consider going during off-peak hours, like weekday lunches. 

Many restaurants offer lunch specials or early bird deals that give you the same dishes at a lower cost. Adjusting your dining schedule can save you money without sacrificing quality. Over time, this habit can make a noticeable difference in your dining expenses.

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