Discount Florida dining vouchers, aimed at tourists

Florida snowbirds and cruise passengers, take note: A new company is offering 50% discounts at nearly 100 Fort Lauderdale area restaurants, but is aiming the deals at out-of-staters.

Co-founded by Mike Batt, the chairman of the travel agency group Travel Leaders, Destination Meals sells $30 vouchers for $15. Unlike bargains offered through daily-deal sites like Groupon, the six-month vouchers — available through travel agents or the company's website — can be redeemed at any participating restaurant, most of which are locally owned.

While the prepaid, non-transferable vouchers are good for both food and drinks, taxes and tips are extra. Batt estimates the average savings for vacationers will be 20% off menu prices. Travelers can use only one voucher per visit/reservation, and must present a valid I.D. showing they live at least 100 miles from the Fort Lauderdale airport. In addition, some restaurants impose a "minimum spend," particularly on weekends. (Case in point: the popular Spanish restaurant Cafe Seville, which earned a 27 rating from Zagat, requires that voucher holders spend at least $100 on Fridays and Saturdays.)

Florida-bound readers, would you take advantage of this deal? What other money-saving strategies do you use for dining on the road?