A great night out isn’t just about the drinks—it’s also about the food. Whether you’re enjoying a casual bar bite, sharing appetizers with friends, or grabbing a late-night snack, food plays a crucial role in keeping your energy up and your spending under control. Smart food choices can prevent overindulgence, stretch your budget, and enhance your overall experience.

Here’s how to enjoy delicious bar food without overspending and how to combine it with drink deals and cashback offers to get the most value.

Choose bars with affordable, shareable plates

Many bars and restaurants offer small plates, appetizers, or bar snacks designed to be shared. These are often priced lower than entrees and are perfect for keeping hunger at bay without costing a fortune. Popular options include:

• Nachos

• Sliders

• Pretzel bites

• Wings (often available with drink specials)

• Cheese and charcuterie boards

Chain restaurants like BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse and Chili’s have extensive bar menus with shareable items that pair well with drinks. You can earn cashback with a BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse gift card or get rewards with a Chili’s gift card through Fluz, helping you save on both food and drinks.

Timing matters: order food early or late

Ordering food earlier in the evening or late-night can sometimes unlock specials or smaller crowds, resulting in faster service and better prices. Some bars offer late-night happy hour menus with discounted snacks, which can be a budget-friendly way to enjoy your night without waiting for a full meal.

Balance drinks with food to avoid overspending

Eating while drinking helps pace your alcohol consumption and prevents getting overly intoxicated too quickly, which can lead to costly mistakes like ordering unnecessary rounds or expensive drinks. A full stomach also helps you make smarter choices throughout the night.

Use food delivery and pickup apps for pre- or post-drinks

If the bar food menu doesn’t fit your budget or taste, consider ordering affordable food delivery or pickup before or after your night out. Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub often have deals and promotions, especially for larger orders or first-time users.

Some cashback apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer rewards on food delivery services, stacking your savings even further.

Snack smart when pre-gaming

Pregaming at home with snacks can also help control spending once you’re out. Opt for affordable, filling options like popcorn, chips, or homemade finger foods. This reduces impulse spending once you hit the bar.

Stay hydrated

Water between drinks helps reduce overall alcohol intake and keeps you feeling better the next day. Many bars offer free tap water—don’t hesitate to ask for it to help pace your night.

Final thoughts

Food isn’t just a side note on a night out—it’s an essential part of the experience and a key budget lever. By choosing shareable plates, timing your orders, and combining food purchases with cashback opportunities like earning cashback with a BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse gift card or getting rewards with a Chili’s gift card, you can enjoy a balanced night without overspending.