A penny saved is a penny earned according to the old phrase. However, living frugally doesn't mean that you can't savor a treat or join your family and friends at a local diner for a bite to eat.
Many eateries feature senior days or menus that make it easy to stretch your dollar while enjoying your favorite foods or drinks. Large chain restaurants can feature different programs according to location, so it's best to call ahead and confirm the details with the staff before heading out.
To help you get started on your own list of local spots to visit, here are three ways to get the best senior discounts at restaurants.
While this may seem intuitive, it's common to simply forget to ask or to feel hesitant to speak up. Many restaurants no longer offer senior discounts. In the place of many special sales and discounts, businesses are opting to create member reward programs.
The programs vary between restaurants, but most involve earning points for the items you buy and online specials that you receive via email or social media sites.
Despite this trend, there are still many individual stores, even in nationwide chains, that will take up to 10% off your bill or give you a free drink or refill.
The best way to find out is to phone ahead of your visit and ask the staff regarding these policies.
Some establishments have implemented a section of their menu specifically for seniors. Though the portion sizes on these 55+ Menus are often smaller, the savings usually more than make up for the difference. Two businesses that have adopted this policy include Denny's, which has several locations directly around our Bethesda Gardens community, and IHOP.
Among the benefits of an AARP membership card are discounts and special programs at restaurants around the country. Like many senior discounts, these promotions vary by location, so its best to ask ahead of time to prevent any misunderstandings.
Some of the savings you can potentially enjoy include 15% off your check at Denny's, a 10% discount when you dine-in at Outback Steakhouse and 10% off orders from the Corner Bakery Cafe.
Participating Landry's Inc. Restaurants, which include popular selections such as the Chart House, Brick House Tavern & Tap and Joe's Crab Shack, also provide up to 10% savings on orders for food and non-alcoholic drinks.
