Successful restaurants are the ones that do a great job conveying what the dining establishment is about in all aspects of the business. There is an image that flows throughout the entire enterprise. Whether restaurant design, menu offerings, customer service, theme, or entertainment, they portray a clear vision of what makes their restaurant unique from all the others.

In almost all successful restaurants, you will find something distinct that sets them apart from all the rest and keeps their diners coming back frequently. That special It could be anything, like the chef coming out to talk with patrons, an open kitchen, an ethnic menu, reasonable prices for the quality of food, far-reaching wine or beer lists, live music, or the design of the dining room. Its that special niche that gives them the winning edge.

On the very basic level, successful restaurants do well because of their location, quality of food, the value of the food offering compared to price, customer service, such as greeting each guest as they enter, and the overall atmosphere of the dining room. They are all things that customers judge a business on and remain memorable in their minds.

All successful restaurants have behind them owners or a management staff that possesses certain characteristics necessary to achieve great things in the restaurant industry. All of those who run winning dining establishments are creative and flexible to adapt to change. They can work independently, but at the same time are comfortable with exercising authority and leading a team.

Many successful restaurants do a good job at retaining customers. They do this by excelling in customer service and building relationships. They know their repeat guests by name, seat them in their favorite spot, do little things that make them feel special and show interest in them through interaction.

All successful restaurants have an effective marketing plan that encompasses efforts to reach their target market. They have an interactive website that enables visitors to make reservations or order gift cards. Complementing the website is an email newsletter with news about the restaurant, seasonal offerings, events and special promotions. Winning restaurants also have a presence on social networking sites, Twitter and other trendy ways people get their news and information. They also maintain a presence in the community by sponsoring charitable events, joining local trade and business groups and holding in-house events. Quite simply, they create excitement around their restaurant that encourages people to want to be a part of it.

Here are 7 ways you can save money at restaurants and still enjoy a night out:

1. Order an appetizer for dinner. Portions have gotten so big lately that this is usually enough anyway. Or share an entrée with your dining partner, if you both feel like eating the same thing and the portions are substantial. You can even ask the server to pack up half of your meal before you begin eating, so you’ll have two meals for the price of one. You’ll save yourself some calories in the process, too!

2. If you’re headed to a pricey restaurant, consider enjoying a late lunch instead of dinner. Very often these restaurants have separate lunch menus with portions that are a little smaller and are substantially less expensive.

3. If you’re dining with the kids, sign them up for the birthday club so they’ll get a free meal or dessert on their birthday. Ask if there are certain days that kids eat free with a paying adult, because sometimes this benefit is not widely advertised. Some restaurants may also offer a birthday club for adults, too.

4. For restaurants that you frequent often, inquire about whether they offer a frequent diner program that offers discounts or free meals after you’ve eaten there a certain number of times or spent a specific amount of money.

5. Try to limit beverages when you dine out. The cost of soft drinks at restaurants has become astronomical! Most restaurants charge between $2 and $3 just for a soda! You can get a 2 liter bottle at home for about half that amount. So stick to drinking water when you’re out and you’ll keep your bill in check. A slice or two of lemon is a nice added touch. If you’re enjoying a special celebration and would like a cocktail, don’t get too carried away because the cost of alcoholic drinks can add up very quickly. Better yet, see if there are any BYOB (bring-your-own-bottle) restaurants in the area and you’ll save a huge chunk of change.

6. Watch out for desserts – sometimes they cost as much as a meal! If you must end the meal on a sweet note, consider sharing a dessert among friends. Not only will your wallet thank you, but your waist will, too!

7. Some chain restaurants also offer coupons, promotions and specials if you sign up directly at their website. It’s worth checking them out to see if you can save a few bucks! There are many other places to find restaurant coupons, too.