Going out to eat and drink as a retiree may seem out of the question. Here’s how to do it on a budget

Dining out doesn’t have to end with your last paycheck: restaurants are keen to encourage the silver dollar, often with deep discounts and deals.

With most retirees living on around $56,680 a year - and medical bills, grocery costs and gas prices soaring - discounts on dining out are a valuable perk. In many cases restaurants also appreciate retirees’ business, offering discounted “early bird” menus for those who dine before 5 or 6 p.m.