I like to think of myself as a primarily savvy shopper with the occasional spending spree thrown in for good measure. Spending hours each day online has resulted in my signing up for all kinds of eClubs, organizations and what have you, as I want to always be in-the-know with who's offering what and when. This time around, I'd like to share my Fave Five with you in honor of everyone having a birthday this week (myself included.) Those of you born in winter and spring may have to wait a while for your treats to arrive in your inbox, but just knowing that they're coming is a happy thought. For the price of a few simple mouse clicks, you'll get to enjoy meals and desserts for nothing; all you have to do is show up—now that's worth celebrating!
Deal: Do visions of tiramisu, gelato or ricotta cheesecake dappled with honey and tangy lemon zest dance in your head? Turn them into reality and dig your spoon into a free dessert, Italian-style—mangia, mangia! Must print out e-mail coupon and present to server; tip not included.
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Good through: E-mail offer ongoing until further notice.
Find out what's happening in Elk Grovewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Deal: Be on the lookout a few days before The Big Day for an e-mail offering a free entrée—it's nice to be a "V.I.A.—Very Important Amigo," per Chevys. Mesquite grilled chicken tacos, here you come! Coupon valid for dine-in only, one-time use; must present ID to server.
Good through: E-mail offer ongoing until further notice.
3. BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Deal: Just when you thought you were all sugared out, yet another present arrives in your inbox: A complimentary Pizookie Dessert. It would be rude not to redeem it, so go ahead and enjoy the fresh-from-the-oven cookie with chocolate chips and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream; an extra Zumba workout will have you back on track in no time. Dine-in only; one-time use.
Good through: E-mail offer ongoing until further notice.
4. Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill
Deal: Hankering for some fresh fish tacos with slaw and rice for nada? There really is such a thing as a free lunch. Print out your Feliz Cumpleaños e-mail and hand it to your cashier when you order -- good for a free meal up to $7; bring photo ID for verification.
Good through: E-mail offer ongoing until further notice.
5. IHOP
Deal: What's that sound in the distance? It's the siren song of breakfast and you must heed its message. Cash in your birthday meal coupon and get a free Rooty Tooty Fresh 'N Fruity meal or menu item of equal or lesser value. Pancake purists will love the Harvest Grain 'N Nut Pancakes topped with apple cinnamon or blueberry compote and whipped cream—it's nice to be a member of the Pancake Revolution eClub!
Good through: E-mail offer ongoing until further notice.
