Dining out is a delightful experience, and when you can earn rewards or cash back for your meals, it makes it even better. Choosing the best credit card for restaurants can help you save money, earn points, and enjoy exclusive benefits. In this guide, we will explore the top credit card options for dining, important features to consider, and tips on how to maximize your rewards.
Why Choose a Restaurant Credit Card?
Benefits of Restaurant Credit Cards
Restaurant credit cards can offer various advantages that can enhance your dining experiences:
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Rewards and Cash Back: Many restaurant credit cards provide points or cash back on restaurant purchases. Depending on the card, you could earn 2% to 5% back on your dining expenses.
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Sign-Up Bonuses: Some credit cards offer attractive sign-up bonuses when you spend a certain amount within the first few months. This can be a great way to boost your rewards right from the start.
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Special Offers and Discounts: Many credit cards partner with restaurant chains to provide exclusive discounts, promotional offers, or access to special events.
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Travel Benefits: If you dine out while traveling, certain credit cards come with added travel perks, such as travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, or access to airport lounges.
What to Look For in a Restaurant Credit Card
When selecting the best credit card for restaurants, consider the following features:
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Reward Structure: Look for cards that offer the highest rewards percentage on restaurant purchases.
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Annual Fees: Consider whether the benefits outweigh the cost of annual fees.
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Introductory Offers: Assess if the card offers sign-up bonuses that suit your spending habits.
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Redemption Options: Understand how you can redeem your points or cashback. Some cards allow flexibility in redeeming for travel, statement credits, or gift cards.
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Additional Perks: Check for extra perks like extended warranties, purchase protections, and concierge services.
Top Restaurant Credit Cards for 2023
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Rewards: 2x points on dining and travel; 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Redemption Options: Points can be transferred to over 14 travel partners or redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
2. American Express® Gold Card
- Rewards: 4x points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery; 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com; 1 point on other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months.
- Annual Fee: $250.
- Extra Perks: $120 dining credit (up to $10 monthly) at select restaurants.
3. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Rewards: 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services; 1% on all other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Extra Perks: No foreign transaction fees and offers for flexible cash redemption.
4. Discover it® Cash Back
- Rewards: 5% cash back on rotating categories (including restaurants) each quarter, up to a $1,500 spend; 1% on all other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Discover will match all the cash back earned in your first year.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Extra Perks: Free access to your FICO® credit score.
5. Citi Premier® Card
- Rewards: 3x points on restaurants, supermarkets, and air travel; 1 point on other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Extra Perks: Points can be transferred to over 16 travel partners.
Maximizing Your Restaurant Rewards
Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your restaurant credit card:
1. Use Your Card Regularly
Make sure to use your credit card for all restaurant purchases, whether it’s dining in or ordering takeout.
2. Track Reward Categories
Stay informed about rotating categories if applicable, and plan your dining out based on those categories to maximize cash back.
3. Combine With Other Promotions
Take advantage of cashback apps or programs from restaurants to stack rewards.
4. Pay Attention to Expiration Dates
Some rewards may expire if not used within a specific period. Make sure you know the terms.
5. Review Your Statements Regularly
Keep track of your points and any additional benefits you might be missing out on.
Conclusion
Choosing the best credit card for restaurants can not only make your dining experience more enjoyable but also save you money over time. Whether you prefer cash back, points for travel, or exclusive dining perks, there are options available to meet your needs. Remember to evaluate each card’s features and choose one that aligns best with your spending habits. With the right card, you’ll be well on your way to earning rewards while savoring your favorite meals.
