When the budget is tight, but you still want to take the entire family out for dinner, I find it very helpful to find restaurants that offer free kid meals.  Champs Sports Bar and Grill offers free kids meals every Tuesday at most restaurants nationwide.  The offer is for one free kids meal for every adult meal.  With a little planning, you can still take those kids out for dinner, you don't have to clean the kitchen, and you won't break the piggy bank.  Enjoy your family night out.