Let's face it, we are all feeling the squeeze right now.
Food prices going up, petrol at a premium, energy prices going through the roof - it's a depressing time to say the least.
But we can't live like monks all the time; we all deserve a little treat every now and then.
And who says you can't eat out - or order in - from time to time without breaking the bank?
Well, the good people of TripAdvisor have done all the heavy lifting for us.
So here are just some of the best places to buy a cheaper meal WITHOUT a side order of guilt.
But we can't live like monks all the time; we all deserve a little treat every now and then.
. The Anchor - Bedford
Scoring 4 out of 5 for value, this pub restaurant in Goldington Road got high praise from customers. One reviewer said: "There’s a huge choice of food and drinks, all at great prices, and it’s always been cooked and presented well." While another added: "Great food at a great price." Well, you can't argue with that Photo: Google
. A Different Brew - Bedford
Scoring 5 out or 5 for value, this restaurant in Clapham Road was praised for pretty much everything - service, food and that fact afternoon tea is served in "beautiful vintage China." One reviewer said: "Great food (and very good value), fab service and they couldn't have made our stay more pleasant." Happy days Photo: Google
9. The Bell - Marston Moretaine
This family friendly pub in Bedford Road scored 4.5 out of 5 for value. It seems to have it all going on, with one reviewer saying: "We visited The Bell with our two young children for lunch and loved everything about it. Very friendly, perfect for families, clean, great food and very reasonably priced." Can't say fairer than that Photo: Google
10. Portu Gallo's, Wixams
Next to Budgens in Brooklands Avenue, Portu Gallo's is a family-run restaurant & takeaway serving authentic Portuguese piri-piri chicken. With a value rating of 4.5 out of 5, One reviewer said: "Found the food really nice and fantastic for value. A lot of food for what we paid." Winner winner chicken dinner Photo: Google
11. London Sweet Centre - Bedford
Don't be confused by the name, this Indian takeaway really is in Bedford - Ampthill Road in fact. With a value rating of 5 out of 5, there were so many good reviews to choose from. One said "Extremely good portions and cheap." While another added: "The food is such good value for money." See you down there .... Photo: Google
12. Bala Sweet And Tandoori Centre - Bedford
This restaurant and takeaway in Midland Road scored 4.5 out of 5 for value. "One reviewer said: We have been visiting here for over 20 years and the food is as good as it was then now. Price is spot on, service excellent. Will be ordering my retirement food in next few weeks." Now that's high praise indeed Photo: Google