How to: Save money on wine while eating out.......

Date Night. A special occasion. A birthday. A Holiday.

American's eat out. A lot. Some choose to do so often and some do it sparingly. When I became a more serious wine drinker, my monthly play money went to buying wine, not clothes or make up or shoes or movie tickets. I do admit my fashion life has suffered because of it, but it is a sacrifice well worth it.

So, when you love wine, and good wine at that, how can you save money while drinking and eating out?

It's not easy in this day and age where the average mark up of a bottle of wine at a restaurant is 100%. That means that your favorite Pinot Noir just went from $20 to $40 in a flash. All for some table service and a nice (or maybe not so nice) waiter to open it for you.

Here are a few tips for you to follow:

1. Search for local restaurant(s) (most often locally owned) that are BYOB. Many small but great food establishments cannot afford or choose not to buy a liquor license. In those cases, you can bring your own wine that you bought at a decent price at the grocery store or wine shop. Some restaurants may charge a small corkage fee (to cover cleaning the glasses, etc.)

2. Call the restaurant ahead of time and ask if you can bring your own wine. Most often they will allow it. A corkage fee will be included (probably around $5-$10) but it will still save you that 100% mark up cost. I have even done this in chain restaurants. You never know until you ask!

3. Split the wine cost with friends at dinner. Going on a double date? Split the wine cost and still get a couple of great glasses to drink over dinner.

4. If you do choose to pay full price at a restaurant, check local laws and make sure you know if you can take the left-over wine home with you. Many states allow you to take wine home with you after dinner. They will properly package it for you. Don't lose money on wine you bought but did not finish. 

5. Eat at home. This has been my go-to budget saver for almost 4 years now. Cooking and eating at home is key for us. We can still get our wine at normal retail price and enjoy a home-cooked meal. Don't like to cook? You can still order in/pick up at your favorite restaurant and save money.

Cheers!