Nearly everyone enjoys dining out. Good food, nice drinks, not having to cook or clean up afterwards. What's not to like?

But given the current state of the economy, many individuals are now tightening their belts and trying to make their dollars go even further. Often this means living on a budget (perhaps for the first time). And the dining out/food category is usually one of the first places people make cuts, when necessary.

One of the keys to successfully living on a budget is to include a few small indulgences each month, within reason. A life of total deprivation isn't very realistic. The truth is, you're probably not going to stick with a budget for very long that doesn't allow for some "pleasures" occasionally. The good news is that if you truly enjoy dining out, there are ways to do it that won't destroy your budget.

Ways to Eat Out for Less

• Share a meal. Portion sizes are really enormous in most restaurants so splitting a main dish with one of your companions certainly doesn't mean you'll be stuck with a measly serving of food. Plus there will be fewer calories to worry about!
• Look for discount deals. There are websites which offer gift certificates for less than the actual dollar value of a meal. Make certain you know and like whatever restaurant is being featured before buying the discounted deal. Other sites such as Living Social and Groupon are good places to check out.
• Skip the drinks. Ordering beverages, whether alcoholic or not, can add a lot to your bill. Stick with water if possible or opt for a drink that comes with free refills such as coffee or tea. If you really enjoy a glass of wine or other potent potable with your meal, order just one and imbibe slowly!
• Book your reservation online. You're making a reservation anyway so why not earn dining points while you're doing it. When you sign up at websites like OpenTable you earn points and rewards for each reservation you make and use.
• Go out for lunch instead of dinner. Lunch menu prices are usually considerably lower than those offered at dinner. The same items may be available at lunch but in smaller portions and without fancy side dishes.
• Pick a fast-casual dining establishment. These types of restaurants offer the convenience of a fast food joint (place your own order) but usually have a wider selection of items on the menu and a more upscale atmosphere. Plus since you place your own order, there's no wait staff to tip. This fact alone can save you up to 20% of your total bill, depending on your generosity. Check out La Madeleine, Chipotle, and Vapiano's as prime examples.
• Do take-out. Maybe you are craving some restaurant food but don't really want to sit in a restaurant. Most dining establishments offer a take-out menu for customers. If the restaurant has a website (and who doesn't these days?) you can peruse the full menu and order accordingly. Yes, you do have to drive to the restaurant and pick up your order. But you won't have to buy any drinks or leave a tip- which adds up to more money saved!
• Look for coupons. Depending on where you live, many local restaurants direct market coupons to addresses within a certain mailing area. You may automatically toss these junk mailers but sort through the next one you receive. You may actually find some great bargains at near-by restaurants.
• Dine in the bar area. Many restaurants have bar/lounge seating where you can choose delicious items from the bar menu that are not available in the actual dining area. The portions are generally smaller and so are the prices.
• Check out "happy hour" specials. If you enjoy going out after work with friends or co-workers, look for places that offer special discounts during these hours. Typically this is between 4pm and 7pm but can vary from place to place. You'll usually find deeply discounted drinks and great deals on appetizers (1/2 price).
• Look for prix-fixe or early bird specials. Restaurants are always looking for ways to attract customers. Many offer super prices to diners who visit during off-peak hours (generally weekdays between 4pm and 6pm). Prix-fixe menus are popular also and are another great way to save money. These usually include a main course and an appetizer or dessert for a specific price. Choosing from this menu can save you a substantial amount when compared to ordering a la carte.
• Dine out on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. These are traditionally the slowest days of the week in the restaurant business. Most establishments offer specials on these days. As an added bonus, you'll also probably enjoy a quieter and more relaxed dining experience.