Have a low budget and a birthday coming up? With the economy as it is now, maybe you’re worried your friend, relative or significant other just won’t have it this year to take you out to a big dinner. Maybe you want to spend time with friends – but can’t afford a big party. Perhaps you’d just like a night with yourself. Well, there are many establishments that will give you a “birthday gift” of something free or something cheap – just for signing up for their e-mail updates. Certainly, you may be thinking – “Spam?! No thanks!” However, it may be worth it once you see the deals you can get.
To start, there are a few places that send you a coupon for a “buy one, get one” deal. Take your friend, spouse, mom, dad, whoever – and it’ll cost them a lot less.
12. Bennigan’s – offers a free burger, salad or sandwich with purchase of one.
11. Dairy Queen – if you buy a 16-ounce blizzard, they’ll give a second one for free.
10. Joe’s Crab Shack – offers a free appetizer when you get an adult meal.
9. Black Angus Steakhouse – gives away a free steak dinner when you buy another entree.
There are several places that give you something extra, just ’cause it’s your day – but of course, you have to sign up for their e-mails.
8. Baskin Robbins – get a free 2.5-ounce scoop of ice cream.
7. Ben and Jerry’s – free scoop of ice cream.
6. Denny’s – dine-in on your birthday and receive a free grand slam.
5. Fuddrucker’s – eat in the restaurant and get a free 1/3-pound burger.
4. Cold Stone Creamery – get a free “like it” sized ice cream – or “upgrade” it for fifty cents!
3. Starbucks – they’ll send you a card in the mail to get a free drink – any kind, any size.
2. Claim Jumper’s – sit down in the restaurant for a free meal and dessert to go with it.
1. Benihana – a Japanese hibachi steak and seafood restaurant (in the Fashion Valley area) that will give you a $30 gift certificate good for any day during your birthday month. You’ll also get a complimentary pineapple dessert and commemorative picture. Don’t worry if you have allergies – alert the chef and they’re happy to accommodate.
Many places will also give you something extra, just for signing up to accept their newsletters. As for the party – invite your friends to lunch and “pay” for yourself instead!
