Savor Savings: Where to Dine and Drink on a Budget

How and Where to Eat and Drink on a Budget 

Last week, we shared tips on how to feed a family of four on a $50 budget, but let’s be honest—sometimes you just need a break from the kitchen. Between packing school lunches, whipping up dinners, and making sure everything stays within budget, a night out sounds pretty tempting. Whether you’re craving time with friends, a date night, or just a break from cooking, dining out doesn’t have to break the bank. You can enjoy our local restaurant scene with the right spots and timing without overspending. Here are some tips and deals to help you dine out affordably while sticking to your budget.

These are examples of some deals we’ve seen in the last week, but make sure to check with each business directly, as schedules and specials can change.

1. Take Advantage of Weekday and Lunch Specials

Many restaurants offer budget-friendly deals during lunch hours, or on weekdays to attract diners. These specials often include a full meal at a lower price than dinner.

• Rincón Boricua: Monday-Friday from 11 am-2 pm, enjoy lunch specials starting at just $7.99, which includes a protein, side, a bottle of water, and taxes.
• Mediterráneo Restobar: Weekday lunch specials for $9.99, including an entrée, water or soda, and taxes.

2. Locals-Only Discounts

Some spots offer discounts just for locals, so be sure to ask when you go.

• Taste Gastrobar: Currently offering a locals special with 10% off food, $2 Medalla draft beers, $5 glasses of house wine, and 50% off kids’ meals for children under 10.

3. Happy Hours and Drink Deals

Happy hours are an excellent time to save on both drinks and food. Most bars and restaurants will have these deals during slower hours.

• Roots Restaurant: Enjoy $5 small plates and cocktail specials during happy hour from 5-7 pm (except Thursdays).
• Lucky Black: On Thursdays, grab a Bombay gin drink for $3 and a Classic Burger for just $7—ideal for a casual evening out with friends.
• D’Island Bar and Grill: Separate daily specials include:
  •  Wednesdays: 35 cent wings, Don Q 2/$5, and Tito’s Vodka for $3.
  •  Thursdays: $1 sliders and Michelob, Medalla, or Corona for $2.50.
• Spires Market and Hielo de Luna: $10 dumpling plate and house cocktail. Every day, 1-4 pm.

4. Affordable Family Dining

Finding affordable meals for the whole family is easier than you think, especially with kids’ discounts and shareable options.

• Rincón Bakery: For a satisfying and affordable option, grab their Cubano sandwich for just $7. It’s large enough to share, making it a perfect early dinner to enjoy on the beach while watching the sunset.
• Waves Seafood Restaurant: Thursdays and Fridays offer a deal with two entrées for $20. Last week’s menu included stuffed mofongos and various chicken options, making it a great spot for family dinners.

5. Game Day and Special Event Deals

If you’re a sports fan, restaurants and bars often have specials tied to big games or events.

• Mi Familias Pizza: Sundays during NFL games, buckets of Medallas for $10 and wings for $6.
• The Dugout: Monday nights feature Budweiser Bucket Happy Hour—5 Budweiser for $12.

6. Weekly Food Specials

Some of the best dining deals can be found on specific days of the week. These specials make it easy to plan your outings around budget-friendly meals.

• La Cajita Añasco: On Thursdays from 5-10 pm, enjoy 35-cent wings and $2 Medalla bottles—perfect for a casual dinner with friends. 
• Breaks: Wednesdays offer 35-cent wings and 50-cent breaded fried shrimp while they last.
• Nacho Libre: Taco Tuesday is a must for taco lovers. Enjoy $3 tacos (pork, chicken, ground beef, or bean & veggie) and $3 shots of Jimador or Jameson.

7. Local Flavors on a Budget

Want the flavor of a homecooked meal without doing all the work or overspending?

• Almendros Restaurant Bar: On Saturdays, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of sancocho with white rice for only $6.95.
• La Fiebre Bar and Restaurant: They offer a variety of local favorites for lunch Monday through Friday. Check out their daily combo options. The combo is only $9.95 and includes a main course, two sides and a bottle of water.

8. Affordable Oceanfront Dining

For those special evenings where you want to dine with a view but keep the costs down:

• Hotel Villa Cofresí: The Bohío Bar offers affordable options for lunch, dinner, or a sunset snack, all while enjoying oceanfront dining that makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

With these tips and deals, dining out on a budget is easier than ever. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch, a family outing, or a date night, Puerto Rico’s restaurants and bars have plenty to offer without breaking the bank.

Don’t forget to follow What’s Up Rincón on social media (Facebook and Instagram) for daily updates on food and drink specials from local bars and restaurants!

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