Fancy restaurants or takeaways? These days, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out or ordering in. Some of us love going out for a nice meal, while others prefer to order food online from the comfort of our sofa. But which option actually saves you more time and money? Let’s break it down so you can make smarter choices about your next meal.
Dining In
- The True Cost of Eating Out
Eating at restaurants is probably the priciest way to fill your stomach. You pay for more than just the food: you pay for the service, the environment and even the place where it’s located.
- How to Make Happy Hour Better
Many fine dining establishments provide unique pricing during “happy hours.” You might get the same food for half the price just by eating earlier or later than most people! Some restaurants and food delivery places even have special deals on certain weekdays when they’re less busy.
- Share Your Food
A smart way to save money at restaurants is to split dishes with your friends. You get to taste more kinds of food and spend less cash. Try sharing a starter and a main dish instead of having everyone buy their own.
Ordering Food Online
When you order food online, you’re paying for its ease. You just need to open an app and press a few buttons to have food delivered to your door.
- Delivery Fees
The catch is that food delivery sometimes costs more. Costs on the app include a delivery fee. Many people also leave a tip for the delivery. These small fees add up quickly!
- Special Offers and Loyalty Schemes
Most food delivery apps throw in deals and discounts to keep you coming back. If you order food online a lot, pick one app and use its loyalty points or special offers. Just don’t order food only because there’s a deal.
- Hidden Health Costs
Only ordering out might affect your health. Restaurant meals usually come in big portions with more calories than what you’d make at home. It’s not a cash problem now, but it could turn into one if health issues pop up later.
The Smart Mix-and-Match Approach
The best approach might be mixing both options based on your situation. Maybe cook at home most days, order food online when you’re super busy and save restaurant visits for special occasions.
Allocate a monthly budget for food delivery and eating out. Once it is gone, begin cooking at home until next month. This approach allows you to use both methods without going too far.
Conclusion
Apps that let you order food online often have special deals. Being smart about which app you use can save you money.
Also, don’t be afraid to mix and match the two. No plan is ideal for everyone. It depends on your schedule, culinary skills and finances. Consider when to order online, dine out, or cook at home to save time and money while enjoying excellent meals.
