Eating out at fancy restaurants can feel like a luxury. The ambiance, impeccable service, and, of course, the food make it worth the splurge. But let’s be honest: fine dining doesn’t come cheap. That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a high-end dining experience without breaking the bank. With a bit of strategy and forethought, you can savor that filet mignon or artisanal pasta without stressing about the check. Here are five tricks to help you save money while dining at fancy restaurants without sacrificing the experience.

1. Go for Lunch Instead of Dinner

One of the simplest ways to enjoy a fancy restaurant at a fraction of the cost is to dine during lunch hours. Many upscale eateries offer lunch menus that feature the same level of quality and creativity as their dinner options but at significantly lower prices. Lunch portions might be smaller, but they’re usually enough to satisfy.

For instance, a dinner entree that costs $40 might have a $20 counterpart on the lunch menu. Additionally, some restaurants offer prix fixe (fixed-price) lunch menus that include multiple courses for what you’d pay for a single dinner entree.

Another bonus of lunch dining is the relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant is usually less crowded, and you can take your time enjoying your meal without the dinner rush. Plus, natural daylight streaming in through the windows can add a warm, inviting vibe to your meal.

Pro Tip: Call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to see if they have a special lunch menu. Not all fine dining spots advertise this, but it’s worth investigating.

2. Opt for Appetizers or Small Plates

Who says you have to order a full entree to enjoy a fancy meal? Appetizers and small plates often showcase a chef’s creativity just as much as the main courses. By focusing on these smaller options, you can sample the restaurant’s best flavors without paying entree prices.

Many upscale establishments have a wide variety of small plates that can be shared among your dining companions. Think tuna tartare, truffle fries, or a perfectly seared scallop. Pair a couple of appetizers with a drink, and you’ve got a satisfying meal without the hefty price tag.

Some restaurants even have “happy hour” deals on their bar menus, which often include discounted appetizers and drinks. It’s a great way to experience the restaurant’s offerings while keeping costs low.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your server about portion sizes or recommendations for appetizers that can double as a light meal. Servers are often more than happy to guide you.

3. Take Advantage of Special Deals and Promotions

Fancy restaurants often run promotions or special events that can help you save money. This could be a seasonal tasting menu, a discounted wine pairing, or even a “restaurant week” deal.

Restaurant Week is a particularly great time to visit high-end establishments. Many cities host this event once or twice a year, during which participating restaurants offer prix fixe menus at a lower cost. This usually includes three courses: an appetizer, entree, and dessert, giving you a full dining experience for a fraction of the usual price.

Another option is to follow the restaurant on social media or sign up for their newsletter. Many establishments share exclusive discounts, upcoming events, or flash deals with their followers and subscribers. Being in the loop can help you snag a table during these promotions before they sell out.

Pro Tip: Websites like OpenTable, Resy, or Yelp sometimes feature dining deals or cashback offers when you book through their platform. It’s worth checking these out before making a reservation.

4. Share Dishes with Your Dining Partner

Portion sizes at fine dining restaurants can sometimes be surprisingly generous, making it easier to share dishes. Splitting an entree, dessert, or even a tasting menu with your dining companion is a fantastic way to cut costs while still experiencing a variety of flavors.

For example, order an appetizer to share, split a main course, and finish with a shared dessert. This way, you’ll get to sample multiple dishes without over-ordering or overspending.

Some restaurants may charge a small “plate-sharing” fee, but it’s usually minimal compared to the cost of ordering an additional entree. Be sure to ask your server if the restaurant allows sharing and if there are any associated fees.

Pro Tip: If you’re sharing a dish and worried about portion sizes, let your server know upfront. They can sometimes divide the dish into separate plates for a more elegant presentation.

5. Skip the Extras

Upscale restaurants are experts at enticing diners with extras that can quickly inflate the bill. While it’s tempting to say yes to a cocktail, wine pairing, or a cheese course, these add-ons can significantly increase your total cost.

Instead, stick to water or a single glass of wine to complement your meal. Many fine dining restaurants offer complimentary bread baskets or amuse-bouches (small bites served before the meal) that can be just as satisfying as ordering an appetizer or dessert.

Dessert is another area where you can save. If you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to pay for an overpriced dessert, consider stopping by a local bakery or café afterward for a treat.

Pro Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, let the restaurant know when you make your reservation. Many establishments offer complimentary desserts or drinks for birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones.

Final Thoughts

Dining at fancy restaurants doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By choosing lunch over dinner, focusing on appetizers, taking advantage of promotions, sharing dishes, and skipping unnecessary extras, you can enjoy a high-end dining experience without the guilt of overspending.

Remember, the key is to approach your meal strategically and prioritize the aspects of the experience that matter most to you. Whether it’s the ambiance, the flavors, or the chance to celebrate a special occasion, these tricks will help you make the most of your time at a fancy restaurant while keeping your budget intact.

So, go ahead—make that reservation. With these tips in your back pocket, you can savor the best of fine dining without breaking the bank.