15 Tips for Eating Like Royalty Without Spending Much While Traveling

Traveling is an adventure, and dining should be a big part of that experience. But let’s face it, eating out can really add up. You want to enjoy great meals without blowing your budget, right? The good news is that you can dine like royalty without spending a fortune. With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can enjoy amazing food that feels special.

Whether you’re seeking out hidden gems or taking advantage of local deals, there are plenty of ways to treat yourself without breaking the bank. From lunch specials at upscale restaurants to the vibrant world of street food, the options are endless. You can even explore local markets for fresh ingredients to prepare your own meals. With the right approach, you can eat delicious food while traveling and still keep your wallet happy!

A man and woman sit at a table with sushi rolls, sashimi, and dumplings on black slate plates. Both hold glasses of red wine. The woman wears a checkered shirt and the man is in a suit. Napkins and bowls of soy sauce are on the table. — Introduction. Photo credit: DepositPhotos.

Research Local Cuisine

A person sits cross-legged on a wooden floor, typing on a laptop. Nearby are a camera, a cup of coffee, a notepad with a pen, and a small dog lying down. The scene conveys a casual work or study environment. — Research Local Cuisine. Photo credit: 123RF.

Prior to your trip, take the time to learn about the traditional dishes and popular dining spots in the area you’re visiting. This research can lead you to places that serve authentic meals and fit within your budget. Many local favorites are often more affordable than tourist-oriented restaurants, and they give a chance to experience the culture through its food. By seeking out these local gems, you can enjoy a more enriching dining experience that reflects the true flavors of the destination.

Lunch Specials

A barista in an apron stands behind a counter, pointing at a menu on the wall while speaking to a customer with curly hair. Shelves with jars and cups are visible in the background. Handwritten menus are on wooden boards above. — Lunch Specials. Photo credit: YayImages.

Many upscale restaurants feature lunch specials that allow you to enjoy gourmet meals without the higher costs associated with dinner service. These specials can include multi-course options at a fraction of the price, making it possible to enjoy a luxurious dining atmosphere during the day. This strategy lets you sample the chef's creations and experience fine dining without overspending. Be sure to check menus online or call ahead to inquire about any lunch deals available on the days of your visit.

Street Food

Person grilling skewers of meat over charcoal on a metal grill. Smoke rises around the skewers, and a hand is turning one of them. The scene suggests outdoor cooking, possibly at a market or street food setting. — Street Food. Photo credit: 123RF.

Exploring street food is an excellent way to experience the local culture and cuisine while keeping your budget intact. Street vendors often serve authentic dishes that reflect regional flavors and cooking styles. They can be a fantastic source of affordable meals, snacks, and desserts. Look for busy stalls, as they usually indicate quality and freshness. Sampling various street foods can also be a fun adventure, allowing you to taste a range of flavors and dishes in a casual setting.

Dine During Happy Hour

A group of people toast with colorful cocktails at a dining table. Plates of food are visible in front of them. The atmosphere is relaxed and cheerful. A small vase with white flowers decorates the table. — Dine During Happy Hour. Photo credit: 123RF.

Many restaurants and bars offer happy hour specials, which typically include discounts on drinks and appetizers. Taking advantage of these deals can significantly reduce your dining costs while still allowing you to enjoy a meal in a vibrant atmosphere. Happy hour is often a great time to try small plates or shareables, making it possible to experience a variety of flavors without ordering full meals. Check local listings or restaurant websites to find happy hour times and offerings during your travels.

Use Dining Apps

A person is using a tablet to browse through various food options displayed on the screen. The categories visible include Healthy Food, Thai Food, Korean Food, Japanese Food, and Indonesian Food. — Use Dining Apps. Photo credit: YayImages.

Leverage technology by using dining apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor to discover highly-rated restaurants that fit your budget. These platforms provide user-generated reviews, photos, and price ranges, helping you make informed choices. You can filter searches based on cuisine type, price, and distance from your location, making it easier to find hidden gems. Many apps also feature special promotions or discounts, giving you the chance to enjoy a more upscale experience without overspending. Always read the latest reviews to ensure a satisfying dining experience.

Seek Out Buffets

People serving themselves from a variety of dishes at a buffet. The food options include noodles, vegetables, and meats, with several chafing dishes visible. Plates are being held by individuals reaching for the food. — Seek Out Buffets. Photo credit: 123RF.

Buffets can be an excellent option for enjoying a variety of dishes at a fixed price, making them a budget-friendly choice for travelers. Many hotels and restaurants have buffet-style dining, allowing guests to sample multiple courses and flavors without ordering individual items. This setup provides a chance to try different cuisines and creates a relaxed dining atmosphere. Look for buffets that feature local specialties, as they can enhance your culinary experience while giving great value for your money.

Share Plates

Aerial view of a dining table with six people holding glasses of white wine. The table is set with various plated gourmet dishes, including meat, salad, and vegetables. Small pink flowers in vases are also present on the table. — Share Plates. Photo credit: 123RF.

Sharing plates with dining companions can be a smart way to experience more dishes without overspending. Many restaurants have larger portions or tapas-style menus designed for sharing, allowing you to sample a variety of flavors in one meal. This approach fosters a communal dining experience and helps you avoid food waste, as you can order just enough to satisfy everyone’s appetites. Be sure to communicate with your group about preferences and choose a selection that showcases the best of the restaurant’s offerings.

Cook Your Own Meals

A person is cooking on a black stovetop. They are squeezing half an orange over a skillet containing vegetables and meat. A white bowl and a wooden cutting board with a knife are nearby. Fresh spinach is in the foreground. — Cook Your Own Meals. Photo credit: 123RF.

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If your accommodations include a kitchen or kitchenette, consider preparing some of your meals to save money while enjoying fresh ingredients. Visiting local markets can be an exciting way to explore regional produce, meats, and spices. Cooking your own meals allows you to experiment with local flavors while controlling your budget. You can create simple yet satisfying dishes that reflect the area’s culinary traditions. Plus, cooking can be a fun activity to share with travel companions, adding to the overall experience of your trip.

Local Markets

Various fresh vegetables are neatly displayed in crates and boxes at an outdoor market. Visible are tomatoes, leeks, green beans, radishes, and cauliflower, along with other assorted produce on a cobblestone surface. — Local Markets. Photo credit: 123RF.

Exploring local food markets can be a delightful way to discover fresh produce, artisanal products, and regional specialties. These markets often feature vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to cheeses and baked goods, allowing you to create your own meals or snacks. Shopping at local markets not only supports the community but also gives a chance to engage with locals and learn about their culinary practices. Consider picking up items for a picnic or a casual meal, which can be both budget-friendly and culturally enriching.

Wine and Dine

A person pours red wine into a glass on a table. Next to it is a glass of white wine and a bottle. A plate with food is partially visible in the background. The setting appears casual, likely at a dining table. — Wine and Dine. Photo credit: 123RF.

Instead of opting for multiple courses, consider enjoying a glass of wine paired with a small plate or appetizer at a fine dining establishment. This approach allows you to experience the ambiance and quality of high-end dining without the cost of a full meal. Many restaurants have knowledgeable staff who can recommend wine pairings that complement the flavors of your selected dish. This strategy not only keeps your expenses down but also gives you an opportunity to appreciate the restaurant's offerings in a more relaxed manner.

Look for Deals

A person holds a smartphone, browsing a food delivery app. The screen displays a dish with options to add to order. A blurred background suggests an indoor setting with soft lighting and a plant. — Look for Deals. Photo credit: YayImages.

Before dining out, take some time to search for coupons, discounts, or special promotions available for local restaurants. Websites and mobile apps often feature various deals that can significantly reduce your dining expenses. Some restaurants may offer early bird specials, loyalty programs, or discounts for first-time customers. By being proactive in finding these deals, you can enjoy a more upscale dining experience at a fraction of the usual cost, allowing you to indulge in local cuisine without financial strain.

Dining Clubs

Four people sit around a table in a warmly lit restaurant. They are drinking red wine and engaging in lively conversation. The woman in the leopard print top is laughing while others smile. Wine bottles and a chalkboard menu are visible in the background. — Dining Clubs. Photo credit: 123RF.

Joining local dining clubs or groups can be a fantastic way to access exclusive deals and discounts at various restaurants. These clubs often give members special offers, such as discounted meals or priority reservations, making it easier to enjoy high-quality dining experiences. Look for clubs that focus on your destination, as they may feature partnerships with popular eateries. Participating in these clubs saves you money and connects you with fellow food enthusiasts who can share recommendations and insights about the local dining scene.

Off-Peak Dining

A man and a woman sit at a restaurant table, looking at red menus. The table is set with folded napkins, and large windows in the background reveal green plants. They are both smiling casually. — Off-Peak Dining. Photo credit: YayImages.

Consider dining during off-peak hours, such as early evenings or late afternoons, when restaurants may offer lower prices to attract customers. Many establishments have special menus or discounts during these times, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the typical dinner rush prices. This strategy can also enhance your dining experience with a quieter atmosphere and more attentive service. Always check with the restaurant in advance to see if they have specific off-peak promotions available during your visit.

Ask Locals for Recommendations

Three men stand on a cobblestone street on a sunny day, looking and pointing in the same direction. One holds a camera. They are surrounded by colorful buildings and appear to be in a cheerful, casual setting. — Ask Locals for Recommendations. Photo credit: 123RF.

Engaging with locals can lead you to hidden dining gems that may not be widely advertised. Ask residents for their favorite restaurants or street food stalls, as they often know the best spots that have authentic cuisine at reasonable prices. Locals can provide insights into where to find quality meals that tourists might overlook. Whether you’re chatting with shopkeepers, hotel staff, or fellow travelers, tapping into the community’s knowledge can enhance your culinary journey and help you discover unique dining experiences.

Dress Up for Dinner

A man and woman are sitting at a dinner table, holding hands. They are raising glasses of red wine for a toast. Plates of spaghetti are in front of them. A lit candle is in the background, creating a romantic ambiance. — Dress Up for Dinner. Photo credit: 123RF.

Dressing nicely when dining out can sometimes lead to unexpected perks, such as complimentary items or upgrades. Many upscale restaurants appreciate well-dressed patrons and may offer special treatment to those who present themselves elegantly. This doesn’t mean you need to wear formal attire, but putting in a bit of effort can enhance your dining experience. Additionally, looking polished can boost your confidence and make the evening feel more special, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the ambiance of the restaurant.

Dine Fine, Save a Dime!

People are seated at a table eating burgers, fries, and salads. Drinks with straws are also present. Two burgers have colorful buns—one green and one black. Hands are visible as they reach for food. The table is wooden with paper placemats. — Dine Fine, Save a Dime! Photo credit: 123RF.

Dining while traveling doesn’t have to be a financial burden. With the right strategies, you can enjoy great meals that make your trip memorable without overspending. It’s all about being resourceful and open to exploring different options, whether it’s a charming local café, a bustling street food market, or a hidden gem recommended by locals.

Remember, the goal is to savor the experience and the flavors of the places you visit. By incorporating these tips into your travel plans, you’ll discover that eating well on a budget is not only possible but can also lead to some of the most authentic and enjoyable moments of your journey. So go ahead, embrace the adventure of dining like royalty while keeping your expenses in check.