There are plenty of restaurant choices if you want to stretch your eating out budget without sacrificing flavor or variety. Dining out can be affordable if you know where to go, and you can eat out at restaurants for under $25, often having some money left over.
Whether you're craving burgers, pasta, or pancakes, you can find what you want at one of these restaurants — where $25 will get you plenty.
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Chili's
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With an entire lunch menu under $20, you'll have a filling and delicious meal each time. They also have soup and house salad for only $10.29, leaving plenty of wiggle room for a drink or appetizer.
Chili's dinner options are similar in price, and they also offer specials like their "3 For Me" deal. This deal includes a drink, a starter, and a main meal—and they're all under $20. With a $25 budget, you may even be able to add a dessert to your order.
Applebee's
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Applebee's has plenty of options for less than $25. Whether you want a skillet, steaks, ribs, chicken, burgers, pasta, seafood, sandwiches or salads, you can find it all within your budget.
Not only do they have great deals when you're dining alone, but they also have a 2 for $25 deal, where you can get two entrees and an appetizer. If you're dining with someone else, you can split the bill and still have some of your budget left over.
IHOP
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No matter what meal you're going for, your money will get you far at IHOP. You can fill up on pancakes, eggs and bacon, tacos, salads, burgers and more.
Their Pancake of the Month Combo is an ideal option that comes with hearty flavored pancakes, eggs, bacon or sausage and hashbrowns for only $12.59.
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Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals
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April brings not just warmer weather and sunnier days, but also excellent shopping opportunities. With Easter happening on April 20, retailers will offer significant discounts on seasonal items at the end of the month, while also preparing for graduations, weddings, and spring cleaning season.
Here are some of the best deals to watch out for:
- Cookware sets on sale for graduation and wedding season
- Winter clearance items like coats and sweaters at end-of-season prices
- Spring cleaning supplies with potential BOGO offers at stores like Target
- Air conditioners before peak summer demand drives prices higher
- Lawn care equipment as homeowners prepare for the growing season
- Post-Easter candy and ham at deeply discounted prices once the holiday has passed
- For grocery savings, consider seasonal produce like asparagus, broccoli, and spinach, which will be at their freshest and most affordable.
Remember that retailers are always thinking a season ahead. They're already preparing to get rid of spring merchandise while you're just getting ready to enjoy it. This makes April a great time to find budget-boosting deals of all kinds and save money at your favorite retailers.
Bob Evans
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Bob Evans has been an affordable American staple since 1962. You can get any type of meal and drink for under $25, including a steak tips dinner sauteed with mushrooms, caramelized onions and topped with green onions that also comes with two sides and fresh bread for only $16.09.
With such affordable food options, you can add delicious drinks or choose a dessert before leaving.
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Texas Roadhouse
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If you want comfort food on a budget, Texas Roadhouse is the place to go. Most of their meals are under $25 so you can add a refreshing beverage or extras to your order.
They serve everything from sandwiches to country favorites like one of their most popular dishes: the Country Fried Sirloin with cream gravy and two sides.
Outback Steakhouse
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At Outback Steakhouse, $25 will get you far, with three-course meals starting at just $14.99 and plenty of other meals coming in under budget.
Each three-course meal includes a soup or salad, an entree, and cheesecake for dessert.
P.F. Chang's
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If you're craving Asian food, P.F. Chang's is the way to go for affordable and delicious options. A newly released "Chef's Feast" menu lets you indulge in a three-course meal for just $19.99. The meal comes with a soup or salad, an appetizer, and one of their popular entrees.
Olive Garden
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Olive Garden's pasta is delicious and filling, and many options are under $25. Plus, they have soups and salads, so you'll find something you enjoy for an affordable price.
You can choose a more expensive option like the Tour of Italy—chicken parmigiana, lasagna classico and fettuccine alfredo—for $22.49. Or, you can go for a cheaper but flavorful and filling option like spaghetti with meat sauce for $12.99 and add a refreshing drink.
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Quick tips: How to travel or dine out without going broke
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When it comes to enjoying things like travel and dining out, thoughtful planning can help you maximize your experience without draining your wallet. These discretionary expenses often consume a significant portion of many budgets. The key is finding the balance between treating yourself and maintaining your overall financial health.
Here are some tips on how to find that balance:
- Visit restaurants during happy hour or lunch for similar food at lower prices
- Join restaurant loyalty programs and subscribe to email lists for special offers
- Use cashback dining apps like Seated or credit cards with travel/dining rewards
- Consider traveling during shoulder seasons when prices drop but weather is still pleasant
- Use price comparison tools like Hopper or Google Flights to track airfare drops
- Book accommodations with kitchens to prepare some meals yourself while traveling
Some of the most memorable moments can come from a meal shared with friends or a budget travel experience that takes you somewhere truly unique. Consider both the emotional and financial value of an experience so you can find the things that are truly worth your money.
TGI Fridays
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TGI Fridays is the perfect spot to get the most for less than $25. If you go with a friend, you can split the bill and get two entrees for only $19.65.
They also have a $5 happy hour so you can get delicious drinks and spend less than your allotted budget.
Ruby Tuesday
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When you want to choose from a variety of foods on a budget, Ruby Tuesday should be a go-to option. From $9.99 Fish Fridays to specials and regular entrees under $25, there's something for everyone on the menu.
They also have daily specials, so check for what they offer on the day you plan to go.
Bottom line
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Eating out can be pricey, but when you know the right spots, you can still enjoy restaurant meals on a budget. Keep an eye out for weekly deals and specials to maximize your savings.
Many restaurants offer rewards programs, too, so make sure to take advantage by signing up for these options. They may also have an email list where you can sign up to get coupons and discounts, helping you to avoid wasting money.
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