Chasing the Fionist Dream

Eating out tends to cost us 5-7 times the price of creating a similar dish at home, yet we do it anyway – occasionally. There’s something special about not having to cook or cleanup, and the ambiance of a restaurant definitely adds to the experience. This is also a good time to patronize small businesses that have been hurt by the war. Our local felafel place has been closed for months since the owner was called to miluim on October 7th. Now that he’s back and it’s open again, the whole neighborhood has been making a point to buy felafel from him – and not only because his food happens to be amazing. Just like anything else, if eating out is something you want to do, make sure it’s part of your budget.

So what are some ways we enjoy the restaurant experience while staying in budget?

1. Skip the starter. The main course is usually delicious and filling enough on its own. No need to pay extra to fill yourself up before your main course arrives.
   
   
2. Go halfsies. If you know the portions are big or you want to enjoy a starter or two, drinks, a main course, and dessert, consider splitting a meal with your dining partner. Ask your server for an extra plate and cutlery.
   
   
3. Drink water. Restaurants (in Israel at least) will bring you a jug of water and glasses for free if you ask for it.
   
   
4. Go for lunch. If you have the flexibility to be able to go out in the middle of the day in the middle of the week, go out for a meal then. Not only will the restaurants be less packed at that time, many Israeli eateries run “business lunch” (ארוחת צהריים עסקית) deals that either have a discounted menu or throw in an appetizer for free.
   
   
5. Use gift cards. Got a BuyMe or other gift card from work, your credit card, or from doing surveys? Check what it covers. You may find that some of your local restaurants accept it.
   
   
6. Pay with 10bis. Are you one of the lucky few who gets a meal program from work? The best way to maximize this perk is to use it in full every month on things you would buy anyway. These plans tend to include some supermarket chains and dining out. Check your app to see what it covers.
   
   
7. Look for discount coupons. We’re sad that Groo shut down because it was great for this. We liked being able to prebuy discounted vouchers for restaurants. We have found similar offers from our credit card company, our municipality, and other “clubs”, but they don’t adequately fill the Groo-sized void in our hearts.
   
   
8. Go for fast food. Ditch the international chains and check out your locally owned eateries. Great pizza, felafel, shwarma, sandwiches, salads, and other great dishes can be found at smaller establishments that cut costs by limiting their menus, having simpler decor, and requiring you to pick up your meal from the counter yourself.
   
   
9. Ask for a doggie bag. Did you order too much food? Instead of throwing it out or stuffing yourself, take it home and enjoy it for another meal.

Now that you know how to save money while eating out, there is one thing you should never skimp on. Always – and we mean always – tip your server. 10-12% tip is standard in Israel, but we generally give a bit more. When we use coupons or vouchers to cover the meal, we always tip in real money on the full price of whatever we ordered.

Have fun and enjoy your meal. B’teavon!

What do you do to stay within budget when eating out?

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