I like to make pronouncements. It's easier for me to adopt or give up something altogether, rather than piecemeal. So my latest pronouncement is this: I'm not going out to eat anymore, unless I'm away from home and can't prepare something myself.
I'm a vegetarian, so my dining out options are limited. I'm also a really good cook (well, I like my own cooking better than restaurant cooking). I like to cook, I really really enjoy it. And lastly -- why should I spend $7.00 for a salad, when I can make a better one for about $1.50?
My final meal out cost me $20.00 - for an order of french fries (not very good and kind of burnt), an ear of corn on the cob (mediocre), a blah salad, and a really good dessert, plus tip. I would rather use that sawbuck for something special, so I was glad my farewell meal was only fair.
Now the challenge will be declining firmly but politely when friends invite me to go out to eat with them (not an everyday occurance, mind you, but once a month or so I probably get a local invitation to eat out). I love to entertain and will gladly host a big dinner party, but will hope I can get away with just saying "no thanks" to invites to meals away from home....
Do other people refuse to eat out on economic grounds?
