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With the state of the economy, many restaurants have found themselves forced to make some changes. You may have noticed that many chains have recently debuted new "Value Menus". Some of them are quite a steal, some of them may have you thinking "Why weren't they doing this all along?". Whatever your reaction, be sure to take advantage of these cheap eats!
Bob Evans - Now, I have to say that Bob Evans is a once every 3-6 months to please my husband kind of place. But, if you're the kind of person that likes to order breakfast at 7pm, you probably love it. Be sure to check out their "30 Meals for $5.99 or less". It's sure to please.
Steak 'n Shake - You've probably seen commercials or ads in the paper drawing attention to this chain's latest deal: 4 Meals Under $4. The meals pretty much consist of burgers, and chicken tenders with fries. My husband and I tried this one evening and I was pleasantly surprised. His only complaint: they're charging less, but the portions are also significantly smaller. Ladies, you might want to treat your guy to a milkshake after dinner so he doesn't starve. You, on the other hand, may have that "just right" feeling.
TGIFriday's - Friday's is offering 16 different meals for $5 each. The portions are just right, in my opinion, and include some really neat new dishes like the Shanghai Salad and the Mediterranean Salad with grilled chicken breast, as well as my absolute favorite, the Strawberry Fields Salad. The menu also includes more hearty options like the Meatball Sandwich, the All-American Chicken Sandwich, and the Parmesan Chicken Sliders.
O'Charley's - It's not as cheap as the others, but it's definitely a deal. Two can dine for $20. Choose Chicken O'Tenders, Cedar Planked Tilapia, Good Time Grillers (sliders), Fried Shrimp Dinner, or the Cajun Chicken Pasta. The best part of this deal is that a side, a drink (soda, tea, or coffee) and O'Charleys rolls are included.
Applebee's - Seems like everyone has jumped on the 2 for $20 bandwagon, which is great for us cheap eaters! This one's a little different, though. Choose one of 4 appetizers: Spinach Artichoke Dip, Onion Rings, Boneless Buffalo Wings, or Mozzarella Sticks. Then choose from one of 12 mouthwatering entrees ranging from salad or pasta, to sirloin and shrimp. However, unless you're a water drinker, you'll have to shell out the extra couple bucks for a drink. Even so, it's still a great deal.
McAlister's Deli - For $5.99, you can choose any two. Half of any spud, half of any sandwich, wrap or panini, a cup of soup or chili or half of any salad. The other thing I love about McAlisters? If you buy an iced tea (they have the best iced tea) as long as you keep your receipt, you can get free refills at any location all day long. That's a sweet deal!
For those of you who aren't chain restaurant lovers, stay tuned for a local and unique version of Indy's best 10 under $10.
If you have questions or would like to share information on your favorite Value Menus or Dinner Deals, send me an email at kmillerindy@yahoo.com. Enjoy!