Whether you are traveling or just eating out while your home is being repaired what is foremost in your mind is "what is eating out going to cost." World over eating out at restaurants can put a huge hole in your pocket.

If you want a well cooked nutritious and filling meal at affordable prices you must find "good cheap restaurants." What you need to aim for is hygiene, freshly cooked food, and nutrition. What will be a treat are large portions that are affordable.

1. An unbeatable choice is small family run enterprises that are cozy and offer a "no-frills" meal. Scout around the less crowded areas to locate the perfect place. Often these are not in main market areas or thoroughfares.

2. Look for food festivals or seasons specials. Many restaurants run promotional offers or "all you can eat" festivals. These marketing ploys make eating out affordable to the consumer.

3. Read through pamphlets sent by your bank, mall, or credit card companies. Many include booklets which have coupons with fabulous discounts for lunch/dinner at select restaurants. Use coupons sold by churches, charities, and school bands, these often have two-for-one dining offers at nice stylish places.

4. Very often the best places are little known and the only way of learning of their existence is by asking friends, colleagues, or neighbors. People love to talk about where they ate and how nice it was.

5. Scan the World Wide Web for recommendations -many travel sites, city guides, and food sites review restaurants for costs as well as food quality. Many restaurants have early bird special rates, which mean you eat when the place is less crowded and get a nice discount.

6. Since eating out is in vogue, watch special coverage on television, these episodes are a good source for whats new and happening in the city.

7. Choose budget places instead of gourmet ones. The fancier the restaurant the more expensive it is likely to be.

8. Scan newspapers and magazines for eating out guides. These are great as they will tell you what, where, and how much for each restaurant listed.

9. Choose a restaurant that has large servings or a "free" salad bar where you can eat all you want along with a main course for no extra cost.

10. Many offer a "frequent eater" program where you will be eligible for great discounts and freebies. Find out about it. Ask about "kid's evenings" when children under age 12 are allowed to eat free or at a discount.

Eating out should not burn a hole in your budget. It should be fun and affordable. Plan your night out carefully and you will have a nice evening without feeling sorry the next day. Intelligent eating is possible.