Eating out doesn’t always mean ordering the most expensive thing on the menu. In fact, with the right approach, you can build a satisfying, well-rounded meal for less by knowing how to spot hidden deals, optimize lunch specials, and even tap into off-menu items that regulars swear by.

Here’s how to hack the menu at restaurants, fast-casual spots, and even chain locations to get the best bang for your buck.

1. Order From the Sides Section

Many restaurants offer generous side portions that can be combined into a full meal at a fraction of the price of entrées. For example:

• Mexican restaurants: Order rice, beans, and a side of guacamole or tortillas to create your own plate.
  
• BBQ joints: Mac and cheese, collard greens, cornbread, and slaw can easily make up a filling combo.
  
• Mediterranean cafés: Combine hummus, tabbouleh, falafel, and pita for a flavorful under-$10 spread.
  

Often, sides are made with the same care and ingredients as main dishes—just portioned differently.

2. Take Advantage of Lunch Specials

Lunch menus are designed to attract weekday traffic, meaning many restaurants offer deeply discounted combos during lunch hours. Look for:

• Half sandwich + soup or salad combos
  
• Entrée and drink bundles for one flat price
  
• Cheaper versions of dinner dishes with smaller portions
  

Many Asian and Latin American restaurants offer daily lunch specials that include soup, rice, and a protein—all for under $10.

3. Use Secret Menus and Customizations

Some chains and independent restaurants offer off-menu items or allow savvy substitutions that offer more food or better quality for less money. Examples include:

• In-N-Out: Animal Style fries or burgers from the not-so-secret menu
  
• Chipotle: Order a “burrito bowl with a tortilla on the side” to essentially get two meals for the price of one
  
• Starbucks: Custom drinks built from seasonal ingredients or former limited-time offers
  

Explore communities like Reddit’s r/Frugal where users frequently post creative menu hacks and budget-friendly food strategies that actually work.

4. Combine Happy Hour with Regular Menu Items

Happy hour menus often offer $2–$6 appetizers and discounted drinks. Pairing a few of these smaller dishes can create a meal that costs less than a full-priced entrée but is just as satisfying.

• Opt for shareables like sliders, flatbreads, and loaded fries
  
• Look for drink-and-dish pairings that include both for a bundled discount
  
• Choose bars and lounges with weekday food specials—even better if there’s live music or outdoor seating
  

5. Ask About “Off-the-Menu” Daily Specials

Especially at smaller restaurants, the kitchen may have unadvertised specials or “loyalty” dishes known only to regulars. Ask your server if there are any unlisted items or specials available.

6. Maximize Free Add-ons

Don’t overlook complimentary extras—some of which can round out your meal or help you skip paying for sides altogether.

• Free bread baskets, chips and salsa, or salad bar access
  
• Unlimited drink refills
  
• Toppings or condiments that bulk up your meal, like extra veggies or cheese
  

Final Thought

Menu hacking is part strategy, part curiosity. By knowing where to look, what to ask for, and how to build meals from low-cost components, you can enjoy dining out without overspending. Whether you’re customizing a burrito, tapping into Reddit tips, or picking apart the lunch menu, great food on a budget is almost always within reach.