These days, saving a buck or two is becoming increasingly important, but going out to eat doesn't have to break the bank. With the economy in limbo, people from all walks of life find themselves in need of bargains now more than ever – and what’s the best kind of bargain? A FREE one! Don’t get me wrong, I'll always clip a few-bucks-off-a-meal coupon, but I'm always on the lookout for the free goods, too.

Here are a few ways to add deliciousness to your stomach without subtracting money from your wallet:

BOGO – Next to “ESPN,” “BOGO” is the most important acronym known to the human race. BOGO of course stands for “Buy One, Get One,” with the latter typically offered at no additional cost to you, the consumer. Granted your meal won’t be entirely free, but nothing impresses a hot date like ordering them something of “equal or lesser value.” In all seriousness, before you go out to eat, always search the restaurant web site or the Internet for these valuable offers.

Happy Birthday - It’s your special day, so why not celebrate it in a fun and frugal way? Simply sign up at some of your favorite restaurants’ web sites. You’ll get special members-only deals all year long to tide you over until you get to the grand prize: The Birthday Coupon. Places like Coldstone Creamery (free ice cream) and Red Robin (free burger) are among the many establishments out there that can help make getting older a little easier … by taking it one free bite at a time.

Kids Eat Free – It’s tough to imagine anything more appealing than having your kids quietly color their paper placemats, leaving the grown-ups to chat without being interrupted. What's even better: when the hostess tells you “kids eat free!” Kids may have little tummies, but more often than not the price tag for kids’ meals is more costly than desired. Check out sites like www.kidsmealdeals.com and www.mykidseatfree.com for an easy way to browse local listings. Restaurants are typically packed on the weekends, so many local establishments will offer a Kids Eat Free promotion during the week to draw in more business. I should know: it's why I hit up Backyard Burger every Tuesday.

Next time you head out for dinner, try the tips mentioned above. It gives new meaning to the phrase “the best things in life are free” – and if you ask my 6 year old daughter, that definitely includes the free mac and cheese on the kids’ menu.

Ryan Zimmerman – Credit.com staff member and official Deals, Steals and Freebies Contributor, Ryan shares his unique insight and tips on saving money by finding the best deals and freebies on everything from groceries to video games. He may look funny, but he's serious about saving dough!