[MrsMaraist]

I am not sure if this is the right place so if not could someone please let me know where to post questions..etc. I was wondering if anyone has used Restaurants.com gift certificates and how does the process work? We are moving to the Charleston, Sc area and my in-laws are coming to visit so I would like to be able to get gift card for that area cheap to save money! Any advice/tips appreciated!

Thanks!

[jamel]

My hubs and I use them. You just really really really have to make sure that you read the exclusions. For example, for some restaurants you can only use the coupons Sunday - Thursday, or you have to order 2 entrees in order to use them. I, personally, think they're a great deal. Make sure that you let your server know that you have them and MAKE SURE TO TIP YOUR SERVER on the original cost of the meal (at least that's my opinion).

PM if you have any more specific questions. We've used them in Cincinnati and in Northern VA/DC.

[joshmamabear]

We often go on road trips and I tried restaurant.com way back in '06. They did not send gift cards then, I printed my vouchers off the net after payment. I was disappointed using them. It made it stressful for us just to look for the restaurants they are good for. The vouchers also had lots of restrictions that I don't find it worth whatever savings.

since its been so long, they may have improved service but I'm not about to try them again.

btw, if there is Golden Corral in the area, PM me for a deal especially if you're dining with kids 8 yrs and below.

[AshburnMom]

I'd check to see what restaurants they have in the area to be sure there's something that works for you. It works great for me! I even gave these to our daycare teachers as Xmas gifts this past year. Sometimes you can get the $25 gift certificate for 80% off. It's a good deal!

But as pp's said, be SURE to read the fine print! And I agree that you need to tip on the total before the discount. Some restaurants put it on the bill or make it a condition so check the check before tipping.

[travelingfool]

I have used them a couple of times when a $25 coupon was selling for $2. Most say that a $25 coupon must be used on a bill $35 or higher. So $35 + tip ($7) + tax ($3)
= $45 - $25 coupon =$20 + $2 initial cost= $22 Not a bad deal if you want to try a new restaurant.

[shoppingfever]

I love using restaurants.com. I agree though about reading your restrictions carefully! I only buy them when they are at 80% off- they do this at least once a month for a week or so.

[MrsMaraist]

Sorry it took me so long to get back on here! I have been sick but thank you all! I was just kinda skeptical about if they really work or not. I think I will try them when we move!

[chipmunk]

I also only buy them when they are 70 or 80% off. I think the $25 GCs are the best deal as you usually only have to spend $35 to use them. Most of the $50 certificates you have to spend $100 to use them, so it would cost at least $70 to use it! ($50 + $20 tip + tax)

[xboxundone]

I use them all the time as other said just make sure to read the details. when eatingout with family or friends it always ends up being a good deal.

[Hertzler07]

I love restaurant.com. I live in the Atlanta area though and alot of restaurants in and around the area are on restaurant.com so it makes it worth it. I have noticed when looking at other cities though, there can be very few restaurants to choose from. I have never had a problem using them. I actually just went on a trip to Las Vegas and used 3 of them while I was there which saved a bunch of money.

[travelingfool]

We used one last night. The unfortunate part is we met another couple and only one coupon could use the coupon. (We got there first!) Fabulous steak dinner with portobella mushroom stuffed with crab stuffing! Ummmm-