In today’s economy, you have to learn to stretch the allmighty dollar just as far as you can. Here are some tips on how you can maximize every red cent and fill up your hoarding stash at the same time when dining out:

Before you go: Times are slow for restaurant owners and vendors as well. With slowdowns in business, you’ll find there are a lot more advertisements for sales and coupons in your local paper and online for dining out. Websites like restaurant.com offer discounts on restaurant gift certificates (check website for useage instructions and restrictions, if any) which you can use. You can even search their database by zip code for participating restaurants. Score!

When to go: They say that the early bird gets the worm! In the case of dining out, this old adage is often true. Restaurants often offer early bird specials as well as happy hour dining specials. Call ahead and check what your favorite restaurants offer during these times. It might be worth it to eat in the bar area if it means saving a few extra dollars on appetizers and other items.

The Menu: Have a look at the whole menu before you make your decision. A lot of restaurants will offer reduced prices on smaller, a la carte, lunch, or “right” portion sizes. If you’re not that hungry, why not save cash and order the smaller portion. Look on the menu for combination meals, which offer you the ability to mix and match small menu items for an appetizer, main meal and dessert all at one low price. Usually, these are a good deal as they’ll offer you a filling meal at an overall price reduction if you’re really hungry.

Salad Bar: If the restaurant offers a salad bar or a dinner salad with the meal for a reasonable price, consider adding it. By filling up on salad, you’ll get that full sensation while getting all of the fiber and veggies that you know you need, and you can save the entree for later. Soup and salad bar combinations at some restaurants can help you save even more money. And remember, salad bars are usually unlimited trips.

To go boxes: Be sure to use them if you have leftovers. Don’t be afraid to put in some appetizer items such as bread, rolls, nachos or side dish items right in the same box with your main entree. Restaurants that have large portions on the menu often serve enough in one portion for two or even three meals.