Eating out has become a significant expense for many couples, with some dining out as frequently as five to six days a week. However, the COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a shift towards home cooking and meal delivery services, revealing new opportunities for cost-saving. As couples navigate their financial habits, they may find that the biggest category where they can free up money to redirect into more important areas is food.
During the pandemic, many individuals discovered alternative ways to enjoy quality meals at home. One notable example is a butcher who began delivering directly to homes, allowing people to maintain consistent, high-quality meal options without dining out. Mary, a customer, shared her experience:
"During the pandemic we found a butcher that started delivering to homes, and we've continued to place a monthly order. We freeze it, so we always have delicious cuts of meat ready to cook every weeknight. Because we now do weeknights at home, we don't worry about eating out on weekends." – Mary
Cooking at home, though rewarding, presents challenges, particularly after a long day. Yet, the financial benefits are evident. Rosana shared how reducing her dining-out habits has positively impacted her finances:
"We were eating out at least five to six days a week; the only meal we were making at home was breakfast! Now, we cook every Wednesday and Sunday and we eat leftovers at least one night, which saves us a ton of money. I allocate my part to credit card debt. It's hard after a long day to cook and clean up afterward, but watching that debt go down is rewarding." – Rosana
Despite the savings, couples often face complications due to different spending habits and attitudes towards money. One partner might be anxious about finances while the other avoids the discussion entirely. Tracking spending on restaurant and takeout meals as a couple can be particularly challenging when individual routines differ.
Lauren highlighted another aspect of dining out that many miss: the social atmosphere. She proposed an innovative solution:
"I think the hardest part of not eating out is missing out on the vibe. I'm still figuring out how to get the energy of being in a crowded restaurant — that's what I love most about dining out. One of my goals is to start a themed potluck dinner party with friends where everyone brings something — still economically efficient, food is fresher, and you get all the social vibes." – Lauren
In light of these challenges, it is crucial for couples to remain supportive and kind to one another while making changes around food spending habits. Establishing a shared vision around money can help bridge the gap between differing financial perspectives. Financial expert Ramit Sethi offers guidance on this topic:
"We avoid discussing finances, and in the process, we allow money to drive a wedge between us. But in my new book, 'Money for Couples,' I offer a 10-step program for building a shared vision around money, even if you and your partner see money completely differently." – Ramit Sethi