Sharing a meal isn’t just romantic or convenient—it’s one of the smartest ways to cut dining costs without sacrificing quality or satisfaction. Whether you’re dining with a partner, friend, or family member, many chain restaurants serve portions large enough for two. Splitting meals can help you stick to a budget, reduce food waste, and still leave full and happy.
Here are some of the best meals to share at major U.S. restaurant chains, plus tips to make the most of your experience.
- The Cheesecake Factory: Huge Portions, Endless Options
The Cheesecake Factory is practically designed for splitting. Entrees like Chicken Madeira, Pasta Carbonara, and their signature Stuffed Chicken Breast can easily feed two people. Pair your shared entree with one appetizer or a slice of cheesecake, and you’ve got a complete meal under $25–$30. - Olive Garden: Pasta and Soup Combos
The Olive Garden Tour of Italy (featuring lasagna, chicken parm, and fettuccine alfredo) is tailor-made for splitting. Add the unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks combo and you’ve got a generous two-person meal at a great price. - BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Deep Dish Pizza and Pasta
BJ’s pizzas come in medium and large sizes perfect for sharing, especially when paired with a salad or small plate. Their signature Pizookie desserts are also shareable—and legendary. - Texas Roadhouse: Ribs and Steaks for Two
At Texas Roadhouse, large portions of ribs, steaks, and combo platters make splitting easy. Their “Fall-Off-The-Bone” ribs with sides can feed two people, especially with the free basket of freshly baked rolls. - Red Lobster: Admiral’s Feast or Ultimate Feast
Red Lobster offers seafood combos that include shrimp, scallops, fish fillets, and more—plenty for two, especially when you factor in salad and Cheddar Bay Biscuits. - Outback Steakhouse: Shareable Appetizers and Steaks
Outback has an array of hearty entrees and combo plates that work well for two. Start with the Bloomin’ Onion and split a steak combo with two sides for a well-balanced shared meal. - Chili’s: 3 for Me Deal With an Appetizer
The Chili’s 3 for Me deal starts at $10.99 and includes a drink, appetizer, and entree. For small eaters, it’s enough to share as a light meal. You can also split a Fajita Trio, which includes steak, chicken, and shrimp with all the fixings.
Want to stretch your dollars further? Earn cashback with a Chili’s gift card through Fluz and combine it with restaurant rewards or promotions.
- Applebee’s: 2 for $25 Combo
The Applebee’s 2 for $25 deal includes two entrees and a full-size appetizer, making it one of the best value date-night meals. It’s designed to be shared and offers a wide variety of entree options. - P.F. Chang’s: Family-Style Asian Dining
P.F. Chang’s offers large portions of stir-fry entrees, lo mein, and fried rice meant to be shared. One entree and one side typically serves two comfortably. Order a sampler of small plates or dim sum to turn it into a feast. - Cracker Barrel: Homestyle Platters and Breakfasts
Cracker Barrel serves hearty breakfast and dinner platters that are easy to split—like the Country Fried Steak or the Old Timer’s Breakfast. Each comes with multiple sides and biscuits or cornbread.
Tips for Splitting Meals Successfully
- Ask for an extra plate – Most restaurants are happy to accommodate.
- Split the check evenly – If you’re using gift cards or apps, apply them before dividing the total.
- Don’t forget the sides – Many entrees come with two sides—perfect for sharing.
- Use loyalty programs – You’ll still earn points even if you split the meal.
- Use cashback gift cards – When you get rewards with a restaurant gift card from Fluz, you’re saving on top of an already value-packed order.
Sharing is a smart, easy way to enjoy dining out without overspending—and many national chains make it simple with generous portions and combo offerings.
