Where are you going to dine this weekend?

Are you a foodie who enjoys eating out? And is your passion for food putting holes in your pocket? When we dine out we often end up overpaying for quite a few items. At that moment the cost might not seem important, but when you add it all up over numerous meals, it can be a considerable amount. For instance, while dining out we not only overpay for items such as water and soft drinks but also salads, fruit platters and clear soups.

Here are a few tricks to help you save when eating out:

• Don’t wait to the last minute to dine out while you’re hungry as you are more likely to over order and spend.
• Make use of vouchers and deals such as the Entertainer vouchers where you can get buy-one-get-one free deals.
• If you did end up over ordering, take home leftovers to eat for lunch the next day. Also try ordering food which can be easily reheated and does not damage quickly.
• Restaurants may have large portions sometimes which are  good for two people. Share rather than ordering small ones, especially if you go as a couple.

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While the Dubai Food Festival may be coming to an end, there are still ways for you to enjoy gourmet meals on a budget. Dine at any of the participating restaurants and you can enter a draw to win AED 250,000 when you spend AED 100. The last draw will be held on the 28th of February 2015.

Otherwise keep an eye out for dining deals that come with your credit card. Below are a few credit cards with discount offers at various restaurants.

[Compare credit cards in the UAE]