6 Tips for Proper Restaurant Coupon Usage

Go ahead and use that restaurant coupon. No one will think twice about it, unless you don't use proper coupon etiquette. There's a different set of rules for restaurant coupons, as opposed to retail coupons. Follow the rules and everything will go much more smoothly.

Here are six tips to the proper use of restaurant coupons.

1. Think smart, not cheap: We're all looking for ways to cut down on expenses these days, even the rich. If you're worried about what people will think when you tell the waitress you're using a coupon, don't make a big thing about it and make sure you're using the coupon correctly. Order items that apply to that coupon and make sure it hasn't expired.

2. Know the terms of the coupon: Many coupons offer "Buy one entree and get one free." The free entree will always be the one that costs the least. The same goes with appetizer and drink coupons. Some coupons apply to specific times of day when restaurants are trying to increase their traffic. Stick to those hours and don't show up five minutes before the deadline as clocks vary.

3. Check ahead: If the coupon is for a chain restaurant, call ahead and make sure the restaurant honors that particular coupon. Some franchises are not required to recognize all corporate coupons. If there is no expiration date on the coupon and its been lying around for awhile, call to make sure they will still accept the coupon. New owners may not accept restaurant coupons issued by a previous ownership.

4. Tell the server before ordering: Most restaurants ask you tell the waitress you're using a coupon before placing your order. I'm not sure why this is true but I've never received poorer service or smaller portions when using a coupon. It may have more to do with how the server enters an order into the computer. Most servers prefer you present the actual coupon when paying so they don't have to hold onto it and remember to which table it applies. Just slip it into the bill folder and no one will know.

5. If the restaurant runs out: If a coupon is particularly attractive, a restaurant may run out of the special being promoted. Ask your waitress or the manager about options. Can you get a rain check? If the coupon is for an extended period, will that special be available at a later date? Can you substitute menu items?

6. Tipping: Always tip your server based on the cost of the meal without the coupon. If you ordered two $10 entrees, tip your server 15-20% based on a $20 bill.