I work in the food industry in a large urban area, so it is a challenge to keep my budget in check as it relates to restaurants and bars. I love going out to dinner, and often getting a drink after a long night of work is the best way to decompress. I think there are ways to live our lifestyle and still keep to a budget though.
I’m not perfect, but I try to keep my other food spending categories low(I do my grocery shopping at aldi and I don’t eat fast food).
I’m then very selective about where I go when I do go out to eat. Last night, I tried a new indian restaurant that has only been open for a few months. It was a great experience, my friend and I split a dinner that cost $100, we each got two drinks and 5 dishes to share. And for the quality it was such an awesome deal. Sharing is the best way to dine out.
Now, I probably won’t go out for the rest of the month but I made it count when I did.