The inflation rate is at its highest in over two decades and it’s no doubt led to a spike in the cost of living and flexing. But what’s Lagos without its eating-out culture? It’s no secret that food-based hangouts are one of the major things we do for fun. But there are ways to try and avoid it costing an arm and a leg every time you go out, sha, like exploring new options and taking advantage of special offers.

Read on for our list of *actually* useful tips, including a lot of ideas from you guys!

Order water instead of cocktails or drinks

Restaurants make a lot of money on cocktails and drinks, which naturally means anything ranging from slightly high to ridiculous prices. So if you’re trying to dine on a budget, opt for water. You spend less and save money, and it also allows you to take advantage of more food options on the menu.

Order starters and skip the main course

Typically, compared to starters, main course options tend to be more expensive. But essentially, when you think about it, a starter is just a small portion of a main. Common starters you’ll find on a restaurant menu like Buffalo chicken wings, fries, chicken or beef suya, smoked salmon or goat meat pepper soup can fill you up. Think about it.

Go for family-friendly restaurants

Unlike highbrow restaurants, the family-style alternatives are more pocket-friendly, and they afford you the opportunity to order a few different dishes that you can share amongst yourselves. What’s also great about family-friendly restaurants is they’re inclined toward larger groups, they offer bigger portions, kids menus and other side attractions. Some days, you only have a Spur budget and that’s cool.

Snack before dining out

To save yourself from spending more than your dining budget, try eating a snack or light meal before you leave for the restaurant. It’s a sneaky, cost-effective method that helps you avoid ordering with your stomach rather than your eyes. When you snack before heading out, it also cuts down the tendency to order large portions of food. Don’t go and make eba o, eat a parfait.

Speaking of budgeting…

Have a strict dining budget

In this Lagos, it’s important to have a semi-fixed amount in mind before eating out, unless restaurants will run you mad. It doesn’t have to be a one-off, it can even be a weekly or monthly plan. Budgeting (and sticking to it) helps discourage overdoing.

Splitting the bill is also another hack to consider, especially when you are dining out with friends. It can sometimes be an awkward conversation to have but think of the greater good — your account balance.

Take advantage of special offers and discounts

Whether that’s a free starter or 20% off a meal during special seasons like Easter or Eid, keep your eyes peeled for special offers that can bring down your food bill. The best way to do this is to check out the restaurant’s socials beforehand.

Try some of these EDL reader tips as well:

P.S. y’all are a savvy bunch…

@bisi.olaogun: “Main meal and my drink or a bunch of starters and a drink. No wine and no dessert.”

@drbisola: “Water, lemon and ice 🤷🏾‍♀️”

@yewandeapatria: “Avoid expensive types/cuts of meat.”

@thefrugalepicurean: “Set menus.”

@chefsia: “I plan ahead, however if the starters are 💯 then dessert must be had.”

@demi_yemi: “No cocktails. Soft drinks or water.”

@a.o.o.g: “Order a few appetisers instead of mains. Skip overpriced drinks.”

@thoolar: “Go with friends and get platters.”

Torinmo Salau is a writer/journalist based in Lagos. Her work has been published in Quartz, Al Jazeera, Foreign Policy, The Guardian and elsewhere.