Posted by Randy A. Salas

John has written many times in the past about ways to get free things on your birthday, including local restaurants that will acknowledge your special day with a treat. But there are also many chain-type restaurants that will help you celebrate if you simply sign up for their free e-mail clubs or newsletters. Since we're in a birthday mood these days on Deal Spotter, here are some of the deals available on your birthday, based on what arrived in our inbox, just by clicking on the links provided. Some are little better than a typical coupon -- and not even as good as the eatery's usual deals -- but others are quite handsome offers, including the Benihana blowout and Don Pablo's gift-that-keeps-on-giving.

  • Arby's: Free Swirl Shake, with the purchase of a Roastburger (expires one week after birthday).
  • Dairy Queen: Free 16-ounce Blizzard, with the purchase of another 16-ounce Blizzard (expires 14 days after birthday).
  • Buffalo Wild Wings: Free dessert (expires one week after birthday).
  • Culver's: Free one-scoop sundae (expires 14 days after birthday).
  • Dickey's Barbecue Pit: Free sandwich, with the purchase of another sandwich, at this Maple Grove fast-food barbecue joint (expires 14 days after sent date).
  • Biaggi's: Free dessert, with the purchase of a pasta dish or entree (expires 30 days after sent date).
  • Boston's Gourmet Pizza: Free dessert (expires 14 days from sent date).
  • Three Squares (Maple Grove): Free dessert with food purchase (expires two weeks after date sent. Also check out offers from other Blue Plate restaurants: Groveland Tap, Longfellow Grill, Highland Grill and Edina Grill.
  • Ruby Tuesday: Free half-pound Handcrafted Burger meal (expires 14 days after birthday).
  • Old Country Buffet: Free meal (expires two weeks after issue, not valid Sunday).
  • KQRS: Free Trainwreck, a large drink for three or more people worth $35, at Jersey's Bar and Grill (expires one week after birthday).
  • Don Pablo's: $10 on your Habeneros Club Card (expires in four weeks), which is given to you when you join. You also get a free dip sampler for joining, $10 on the anniversary of your sign-up date and $10 every 9th visit.
  • Benihana: Free meal up to $30 (expires month of birthday, or by date on certificate).

What free birthday offers have you found through e-mail sign-ups?