Eat out in Champaign-Urbana, but go online before you dine
Hungry but don't want to cook? Not quite ready to spend $$$ on a meal? That makes, well, many of us. Fear not - you can eat out, AND get a good value for your buck. Dare I even say - save?!
It is all online! Before you leave your house (or work) to go to a restaurant, give yourself 10 minutes online.
Google the restaurant! Start with search (Google, Yahoo, MSN) if you don't know the Web site address for the restaurant (or type of local restaurant) you want to eat at. Google it and "voila!" - You are half way there. Check out the site's features - menus, hours, price lists, special offers, etc. You may even find some printable coupons you can use. Many restaurants are offering special dining hours and deals to attract new and returning consumers.
If you are not finding any deals on the restaurant Web site, check your local Web directories. Try EatCu for the local Champaign-Urbana restaurant listings. You can find their "food specials" and "bar specials" listings for establishments in Champaign-Urbana.
I would recommend staying away from online Yellow Page-type directories or non-local directory sites. They will often give you just the basics, such as the business address and contact information. Not very valuable when you are trying to decide what you want and are trying to save some money.
You can also check local listing sites like MyCitySafari.com. Here you will find not only the basic local information about the restaurants, but also printable Local Deals that can amount to significant savings. It's easy - just click on "Shopping" and then "Food and Dining."
So, before you hit the grocery store and spend hours on making a perfect meal, check online - you may be able to actually save money and time by eating at a local restaurant.
