14 free ways to save money dining out at Manchester restaurants

Manchester is packed with incredible eateries, cafes, restaurants and pubs - we really are spoilt for choice in the city. From gourmet food served in gorgeous beer gardens, to unique limited edition creations served in bowling alleys - Manchester has it all and more, but with a desire to try each and every one, dining out can soon get expensive.

However, there are a few ways you can shave a couple of quid off your bill without the need for mobile apps, voucher codes and saving receipts. In fact, it just takes a bit of creativity and forward planning.

SurreyLive food writer Laura Nightingale has had her fair share of meals out over the years, and has shared her top tips for going out to eat on a budget.

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She said: "Whether you enjoy going out for lunch with friends, coffee with colleagues or a romantic dinner for two, there are ways you can save yourself a bit of cash when it comes to paying the bill. With the cost of living rising and many people feeling the pinch, and while coupons are excellent for those of us who are super organised, they are not ideal for people who forget or don't have time to scour the Internet before heading out for a meal."

Below are 14 secrets for saving yourself some money when you're out and about this summer, or you just don't fancy cooking at home. From the best time to go out to eat, to food and drinks to avoid, the simple suggestions will work at restaurants not just in Manchester, but anywhere in the UK.

1. Choose lunch over dinner

Many restaurants offer a cheaper lunch menu, so if you can go earlier in the day, do so. This is especially true for Michelin star