If you are like most people these days, you are probably a little more careful when you are spending your hard earned money! But once and awhile you want to have a meal on the town, but it doesn't have to break the bank...

Financial expert Aaron Maguire has some tips on saving some cash next time you eat out...

Aaron, should we just eat less?

Having a snack before you go out to eat is actually a good idea, this will ensure that you will not be starving when you sit down to eat

If we are starving, we will tend to order more at the restaurant that we really can eat

Take your leftovers home, this is a great way to have lunch or dinner the next day

Avoid the major holidays, they are usually the busiest time for the restaurants and the restaurants tend to charge a little more money for their all inclusive meals

What are some ways we can save money?

Cut out the appetizers if you are eating a meal

Consider having an appetizer as your meal often, restaurants will have specials on their appetizers

Splitting your meal is a great way save money but be careful some restaurants will charge a sharing fee

Consider having your coffee and desert at home, these are some of the most marked up items on the restaurant menu

What else can we do to save money when we eat at a restaurant?

Use your coupons, there are coupon, discount programs that you can take advantage of in the area.

There are coupon books you can buy and take a look at the internet for even more coupons

Minimize your alcohol intake, it tends to be very expensive when you order it out

If you are having a special occasion with your family, consider going out to lunch instead of dinner…you will end up saving a lot of money

If you have a favorite restaurant, know when they have their specials and take advantage of the discounts when they occur