We all have days when we don’t feel like cooking, but dining out frequently can get expensive. Here are five restaurant tricks that will save you money!

Make wise menu choices. A great place to start is by researching menus online before visiting the restaurant. This will allow you more time to look over your food options, instead of feeling rushed and ordering an expensive meal. You can also opt for combination meals, which give you a starter and main dish for a discounted price. If you are dining with a group of friends, consider splitting a few appetizers to cut costs.

Go during happy hour. Try eating at restaurants during happy hour, which is typically 4pm to 7pm. You will save on beverages and enjoy half-priced appetizers and shareable dishes!

Buy discounted gift cards. Once you upgrade your basic checking account to a Benefits Plus^® checking with SeaComm, you will gain access to a variety of gift and eGift cards at up to 15% off! You can receive discounts at numerous restaurants, including Chipotle, Panera Bread, Applebees, Olive Garden, Auntie Anne’s, and more. Stop by your local SeaComm branch location to enroll, today!

For complete information, terms, conditions, and exclusions please visit Benefits-plus.org or call 866-329-7587.

Join mailing lists. Some of your favorite restaurants will reward you for becoming a part of their email chain! You will receive points, discounts, or even free appetizers and desserts. Keep this in mind the next time you go out to eat, and even ask the hostess or waiter about any additional offers.

Use your SeaComm Visa® Platinum. If you are unable to find the right discount or deal, you should at least be able to earn rewards for your purchase of a meal! Using your SeaComm Visa® Platinum enables you to earn points and cash back with every dollar spent. You can redeem your points for cashback, or use them to purchase quality merchandise at ScoreCardRewards.com.

For added convenience, ScoreCard® Rewards now offers Premium Payback, which allows you to redeem your points right at the point of sale, virtually anywhere. Just make a qualifying purchase at a participating location and you will promptly receive a text message or email asking if you want to redeem your points to cover your purchase. If you choose to accept the offer, you will receive a statement credit to your account for the transaction amount. Click here to get started!