Best Dining Credit Cards in 2025: Earn Big at Restaurants
Editor’s pick
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Editor’s pick
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
With its 3 points per dollar on dining (including restaurants, delivery services and takeout), plus a slew of other bonus categories and benefits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is our pick for the best credit card for dining. Cardholders also enjoy a one-year complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership and a $10 monthly credit.
Key takeaways
- The average American spends $328 per month dining out, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Some of the top dining credit cards offer up to 5 points per dollar on dining purchases, as well as annual dining credits.
- A dining rewards card might be right for you if going to restaurants and take-out is one of your top areas of spending.
- In general, you can earn 2 to 5 points or miles per dollar spent, or 2% to 5% cash back, on dining with a dining rewards credit card. Based on average monthly restaurant spending, average earnings could total from $78 to $197 per year.
- (Winner) best credit card for restaurants: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Best dining card runner-up: American Express® Gold Card
- Best credit card for dining and groceries: Citi Strata Premier® Card
- Best credit card for dining with no annual fee: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
- Best restaurant credit card for entertainment: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best credit card for eating out with high rewards in top spending categories: Citi Custom Cash® Card
- Best for online food delivery and shopping: Prime Visa
- Best credit card for restaurants and travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Best dining rewards card for business owners: American Express® Business Gold Card
Our expert’s top picks
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
Winner
|
$95 | 1X - 5X points
| 75,000 points
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
|
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
American Express® Gold Card
|
Dining card runner up
|
$325 | 1X - 4X points
| As high as 100,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| |
Citi Strata Premier® Card
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
Dining and groceries
|
$95 | 1X - 10X points
| 60,000 points
Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
|
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
No annual fee
|
$0 | 1.5% - 5% cash back
| $200 cash back
Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
|
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Entertainment
|
$0 | 1% - 8% cash back
| $300 in welcome bonuses
Earn $300 in welcome bonuses with a limited-time $100 Capital One Travel credit, plus earn $200 cash bonus with $500 spend within 3 months from account opening
| |
Citi Custom Cash® Card*
|
High rewards in top spending categories
|
$0 | 1% - 5% cash back
| $200 cash back
Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
| |
Prime Visa*
|
Online food delivery and shopping
|
$0 | 1% - 5% cash back
| $150 Amazon gift card
Get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
| |
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
|
Best credit card for restaurants and travel
|
$795 | 1X - 8X points
| 125,000 points
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
| |
American Express® Business Gold Card
|
Business owners
|
$375 | 1X - 4X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
|
To compare the best credit cards for dining, you should take a look at the rewards you can earn at restaurants, takeout and delivery, as well as how much you can earn in other categories. You should also see if the card has any dining credits or other benefits and how they compare to the card’s annual fee. (A card with no annual fee has broad appeal — however, many cards with annual fees have other value-added perks that can offset that cost.) Finally, you should take a look at the APR and recommended credit.
Methodology for choosing the best dining and restaurant cards
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best dining and restaurant rewards cards. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate the rewards earned for the average cardholder using Bureau of Labor statistics data and an annual spend of $20,000, minus the annual fee. This value includes sign-up bonuses and annual bonuses (including annual free night certificates). We look at the average rewards earned over two years to balance out a card’s ongoing value with its first-year value.
We consider how easy the rewards are to use, looking at factors like expiration dates, minimum redemption thresholds, blackout dates and the availability of flexible redemption options like travel statement credits and cash back.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best rewards credit card. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
Winner
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Earn 3x points on dining
Full rewards rate details:
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
- Earn 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries
- Earn 2x on all other travel purchases
- Earn 1x on all other purchases
- Earn elevated points on dining
- Bonus points on account anniversary
- Solid sign-up bonus
- Complimentary DoorDash DashPass for a minimum of one year
- $95 annual fee
- No intro APR offer for purchases or balance transfers
Why it’s great for dining:
We love this card for all types of foodies, whether you enjoy dining out, eating in, or hitting the drive-thru. The card offers a solid unlimited 3 points per dollar on dining, including eligible delivery services. And, cardholders can get statement credits on their DoorDash orders, plus an upgrade to DashPash for one year, which means no delivery fees.
What’s more:
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card isn’t just a foodie favorite. It’s a contender for best points credit card overall thanks to its generous welcome offer, numerous bonus categories and travel insurance and transfer partners. Cardholders enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases. Even with the annual fee, there is a lot of potential value on this card.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
- Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
- 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
- Member FDIC
- Rates & Fees
Best dining card runner-up
American Express® Gold Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- Terms apply.
- High welcome offer
- Generous rewards program for dining and U.S. supermarket purchases
- Annual Uber (including Uber Eats) benefit and dining credits (enrollment required)*
- Travel benefits, like baggage1 and rental car insurance2
- $325 annual fee
- Statement credits can be difficult to use
- Amex tends to be more limited as to what counts as “dining”
Why it’s great for dining:
The American Express® Gold Card has the highest flat bonus earning rate for dining at restaurants worldwide, plus U.S. takeout and delivery. It’s capped at the first $50,000 spent per year, which should be more than sufficient for most people. Some of the card’s key benefits are also aimed at food aficionados, including monthly statement credits on select dining purchases; Uber Cash* (which can include Uber Eats orders); Dunkin’ purchases (enrollment required); and Resy restaurants (enrollment required).
What’s more:
Besides the dining-focused earning and perks, this is a points-earning powerhouse of a card, beginning with its very generous welcome offer and generous earnings on U.S. supermarket purchases and flights. You’ll have to do ample spending to make the higher $325 annual fee worthwhile. You may get extra value from your Amex Membership Points when used with one of its 1:1 travel transfer partners.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
- Rates & Fees
Best credit card for dining and groceries
Citi Strata Premier® Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Earn 3X points on a wide variety of categories, including restaurants
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 10x on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked through CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Restaurants.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Supermarkets.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 spent on Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on All Other Purchases
- Earn a $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
- Travel insurance protection: Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption (Common Carrier), Trip Delay, Lost or Damaged Luggage, MasterRental Coverage (Car Rental).
- Generous sign-up bonus
- Elevated rewards on dining, groceries and more
- Annual hotel credit and other travel benefits
- $95 annual fee
- No 0% intro APR offer
- Must book travel through Citi for best earning rate and hotel credit
Why it’s great for dining:
With a solid 3 points per dollar on restaurants, on top of other everyday spending bonus categories, the Citi Strata Premier® Card is an effective card for earning flexible Citi ThankYou® Points. We especially like that there is no cap on earnings, which gives it an edge over some other cards that have limits.
What’s more:
The Citi Strata Premier® Card has top-notch earnings across popular spending categories in addition to dining, including 3 points per dollar on air travel and hotels, supermarkets and gas and EV stations; and 1 point per dollar on everything else. If you book travel directly through Citi Travel®, you can earn 10 points per $1 spent. Cardholders can also earn a valuable welcome offer, plus strong travel protections and points transfer to travel partners.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.
- Earn 10 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
- Earn 3 Points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
- Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
- No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
- Rates & Fees
Best credit card for dining with no annual fee
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
Earn 3% cash back on dining and an unlimited 1.5% on most other purchases
Full rewards rate details:
- Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
- Earn 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
- Earn 1.5% on all other purchases
- $0 annual fee
- Elevated rewards earning rate on dining
- Low spending threshold for sign-up bonus
- Long intro APR period on purchases and balance transfers
- Must book through Chase for highest earning rate
- Charges foreign transaction fees
Why it’s great for dining:
With no annual fee and a simple cash back earning structure, you can earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining with the Chase Freedom Unlimited®. Chase’s partnership with DoorDash also unlocks six months of complimentary DashPass membership and up to $10 off each quarter on non-restaurant DoorDash orders through Dec. 31, 2027.
What’s more:
In addition to dining, you also earn 3% on drugstore purchases and 5% back on travel booked through the Chase portal. All other purchases earn a flat 1.5% cash back, which is higher than the typical 1% base rate on many cards. New cardholders have the opportunity to enjoy an intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening and a 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 15 months; 18.74% - 28.24% Variable APR afterwards. There are also several consumer protections not often included on no-annual-fee cards.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Intro Offer: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening
- Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
- No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
- Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 18.74% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
- Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
- Member FDIC
- Rates & Fees
Best restaurant credit card for entertainment
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earn 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 3% Cash Back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services
- Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- Earn 1% Cash Back on all other purchases
- Generous cash back on dining and entertainment
- $0 annual fee
- Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers (a balance transfer fee applies)
- Potentially high APR after intro period ends
- Target and Walmart excluded from higher grocery store earnings
Why it’s great for dining:
The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card offers dining as one of its top bonus categories, offering 3% cash back. We like that Capital One’s dining category is broad compared to some other issues, as it includes not only restaurants, cafes and fast-food places, but also bars and bakeries. Finally, Capital One cardholders can leverage Capital One Dining privileges like exclusive reservations and culinary experiences.
What’s more:
The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card also offers 3% back on entertainment, popular streaming services and groceries, making it a well-rounded card for people who enjoy events outside the home, but also grocery shop and binge-watch in their downtime. There are a few perks for travelers, too, like the $100 credit towards travel booked through Capital One’s travel portal during your first year and no foreign transaction fees.
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in welcome bonuses. Enjoy a $100 credit to use towards flights, stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel during your first cardholder year. Plus, earn a $200 cash bonus once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn unlimited 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, plus 1% on all other purchases
- Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
- 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months; 18.99% - 28.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
Best credit card for eating out with high rewards in top spending categories
Citi Custom Cash® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Get 5% on your top category of spending each month (including restaurants)
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
- Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026
- $0 annual fee
- Earn 5% cash back on your highest spend category each month (includes restaurants)
- Easy-to-earn sign-up bonus
- Long intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
- $500 monthly limit on higher cash-back rewards rate
- Most other purchases only earn 1% cash back
- No travel protections
- 3% foreign transaction fee
Why it’s great for dining:
If dining is your top category in a given month, the Citi Custom Cash® Card will award you 5% back up to $500 spent, meaning you can earn up to $25 per month from your restaurant purchases. You also get access to Citi Entertainment, which includes culinary experiences as part of its programming.
What’s more:
The best feature of this card is that your top category changes automatically and gives you flexibility if you happen to spend more in one of the other eligible categories (gas, groceries, travel, transit, streaming, drugstores, home improvement, fitness clubs or live entertainment) in a given month. Also attractive is getting both a sign-up bonus and an introductory APR.
- Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
- 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 17.99% - 27.99%, based on your creditworthiness.
- Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2026.
- No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
- No Annual Fee
- Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.
Best for online food delivery and shopping
Prime Visa*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earn 2% cash back on gas stations, restaurants and local transit
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
- Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
- Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases
- Amazon gift card upon approval
- Travel benefits, such as car rental and baggage delay insurance
- $0 annual fee
- $0 foreign transaction fees
- Must have an Amazon Prime membership to earn the highest rewards rate
- Subject to the Chase 5/24 rule
Why it’s great for dining:
The Prime Visa card is primarily for Amazon enthusiasts, but it also has 2% back on restaurant purchases (as well as gas, transit and commuting). Appealing for foodies is that the top rate of 5% applies not only to Amazon.com purchases, but also on Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Market orders, both of which offer a selection of meal kits and freshly-made meals you can heat-and-eat.
What’s more:
You must be a Prime member to get the full benefits of this card. You can get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members. Because it is issued by Chase, cardholders also enjoy travel benefits and consumer protections like purchase protection, extended warranty and lost luggage reimbursement.
- Get a $150 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
- Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
- Prime Card Bonus: Earn 10% back or more on a rotating selection of items and categories on Amazon.com with an eligible Prime membership
- Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
- Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
- No annual credit card fee
- No more waiting. Redeem daily rewards at Amazon.com as soon as the next day
- Member FDIC
Best credit card for restaurants and travel
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Earn 3x points on dining worldwide
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠
- Earn 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct
- Earn 3x points on dining worldwide
- Earn 1x points on all other purchases
- Very valuable welcome offer
- Earn high rewards rates in several categories, including unlimited 3 points per dollar on dining
- Annual $300 dining credit
- Complimentary DashPass membership and DoorDash promos
- Airport lounge access (which typically includes free food and drinks)
- Very high annual fee of $795 per year
- The dining credit is only available with select restaurants in the Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables collection
- Many of the card’s value-added benefits are aimed at frequent travelers and big spenders
Why it’s great for dining:
Besides the unlimited 3 points per dollar you’ll earn at dining worldwide, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® includes other food-related features. Each year, cardholders can get back up to $300 in dining credits when eating at Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables restaurants. You can also save on at-home food delivery with DoorDash partner benefits, as well as on pre-flight snacks and beverages, thanks to airport lounge access.
What’s more:
As a top-tier travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® has a lot of exclusive benefits and earning opportunities, beginning with a lucrative welcome offer. You’ll also earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases. Cardholders will have to put in some effort to maximize the slew of statement credits and take advantage of airport lounges to make the high annual fee worth it.
- Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
- $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
- Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
- Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
- Member FDIC
Best dining rewards card for business owners
American Express® Business Gold Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Get 4X points on the two eligible categories where your business spent the most each month (including U.S. restaurants)
Full rewards rate details:
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required. Terms Apply
- Extremely generous welcome offer
- Earn valuable points at a high rate on your top two purchase categories (which may include dining), as well as flights and hotels
- More than $300 in credits for select business purchases (enrollment required)
- Travel benefits
- High annual fee
- High spend to earn the welcome offer
- Yearly spending cap for on higher rewards rate
Why it’s great for dining:
While the personal version of the card awards 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, the American Express® Business Gold Card awards that rate for your top two spending categories (with U.S. restaurants being one of the six options). Business owners who do a lot of wining and dining, team outings, or client meet-ups over a meal can reap a lot of value. In addition, one of the statement credit offers on the card (up to $20 per month) can be applied to Grubhub purchases (enrollment required).
What’s more:
With strong earnings, flexibility and a reasonable annual fee for a business owner, this card offers a good value proposition. You can also get five additional employee cards for $95, which can help smaller teams stack earnings especially if business travel and client dinners are the norm.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.*
- Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
- The Business Gold Card comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and White Gold. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
- *Terms Apply
- Rates & Fees
What is a dining credit card?
A dining credit card is one that offers elevated bonus rewards — either cash back, points or miles — on restaurant or takeout purchases. In addition, dining credit cards sometimes offer other perks related to eating out, such as statement credits for food delivery or access to special culinary experiences.
Most cards that offer rewards for dining usually count spending at restaurants, fast food establishments and some takeout and delivery services. Other eateries like bars, lounges, cafes and bakeries are sometimes included, but it depends on the specific card issuer.
Pros and cons of dining rewards credit cards
- Each meal equals rewards. If you’re someone who dines out regularly, a card that offers bonus rewards for restaurant and take-out spending can help accelerate the amount of cash back or points you earn. With every meal out, rewards are on the menu.
- Offset dining costs. Dining rewards can help keep your restaurant budget in check since cash back or points translate to savings. You can even think of it like a meal discount.
- Bonus foodie perks. You may be able to enjoy exclusive perks like monthly statement credits from partner restaurants, complimentary premium memberships to food delivery services, or access to exclusive culinary experiences.
- Limitations on some earnings. Dining rewards could be limited, depending on the card. Some issuers cap the bonus earnings, while quarterly rotating category cards might only include dining as a top category for a few months out of the year.
- Top rewards may require a fee. Oftentimes, the most lucrative dining reward cards have annual fees. These cards can offer a lot of value, but require more effort and discipline to make sure you earn enough rewards and maximize benefits to make those costs worthwhile.
- Rewards could make it tempting to overspend. Similar to overeating, overindulging in restaurant spending because you’re chasing rewards could cause some (financial) discomfort.
Maximizing your dining rewards
There’s no doubt that restaurant prices have gone up — a LendingTree survey found that most Americans now see fast food as a luxury — but you can still find ways to save. To maximize dining rewards, the key is to choose a card that offers restaurant or dining as a top bonus category. From there, make sure you use your dining card on any eligible purchases. You can also make your rewards go even further by stacking dining points and leveraging dining loyalty programs.
Stack rewards with dining programs
Stacking refers to getting a rewards double-dip from one purchase. With dining, it usually means paying for a restaurant purchase with a credit card that offers cash back or rewards on that spend, but also linking that card to a loyalty dining program offered through airlines and hotels.
For example, if you sign up for the SkyMiles Dining program, you can earn up to 5 miles per $1 spent when you dine at a participating restaurant. Let’s say that your linked payment method happens to be your Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card that earns 3% cash back on dining. If you pay $125 for a meal at an eligible location, you’d earn 625 Delta SkyMiles and $3.75 in cash back in your Capital One account.
Airline dining programs
| Dining Program | Earning rate |
|---|---|
| Delta SkyMiles Dining | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| American Airlines AAdvantage Dining | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| Alaska Mileage Plan Dining | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| United MileagePlus Dining | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards Dining | Up to 3 miles per dollar |
| Free Spirit Dining | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| TrueBlue Dining | Up to 3 points per dollar |
Hotel dining programs
| Dining Program | Earning rate |
|---|---|
| IHG One Rewards Dine & Earn | Up to 8 points per dollar |
| Eat Around Town by Marriott Bonvoy | Up to 4 points per dollar |
| Hilton Honors Dining | Up to 8 points per dollar |
| Choice Eat & Earn | Up to 5 points per dollar |
Use card-linked apps or deals
Squeeze even more value out of your dining purchases by linking your cards to other rewards apps or deals. Examples include Rakuten Dining, which offers 5% cash back at participating restaurants, or Neighborhood Nosh with offers up to 10% from restaurants in its network.
Leverage introductory bonuses
Welcome offers provide upfront value when you open a new credit card, and many dining rewards cards have them. In most cases, to qualify for a sign-up bonus, you’ll need to meet a minimum spending requirement, such as spending $3,000 in the first 90 days of card opening. If it’s a significant amount beyond your normal spending levels, try to time the card opening to a period of time when spending might be higher. For example, if you’ll be going on a trip and dining out for a week straight, or if you have a family celebration and you’ll be catering from a restaurant, you can pay with the new card to meet your bonus requirement while also maximizing your dining rewards.
Use the card’s perks fully
Maximizing your restaurant credit card is more than just earning points. See what other perks and benefits the card offers and try to take advantage. For example, if you have the American Express® Gold Card, set a calendar reminder for yourself to try to earn the monthly statement credits on Dunkin’ purchases, the dining credit and the semi-annual Resy credits (enrollment required for each benefit). On the Chase Sapphire cards, take advantage of Chase Dining to unlock special rewards or reservation access.
Also important, if you have the type of card that requires bonus category activation each quarter (like the Chase Freedom Flex®) don’t forget to activate or you could leave value on the table. Be mindful of earnings caps, too, such as the $500 monthly cap on the Citi Custom Cash® Card’s 5% bonus category.
How to choose the best credit card for restaurants
- Look at your dining habits: How much do you spend on eating out per month?
When picking a dining credit card, try to estimate how much you spend on dining out per month. If you spend several hundred dollars, it may be worthwhile to level up to a premium card (that has an annual fee) to unlock higher bonus rewards. Otherwise, no annual fee cards can still offer an ample portion of points. - Decide cash back vs points: Do you prefer simple cashback or are you looking to travel using points?
All sorts of cards offer rewards for restaurant spending. Think about what else you want from your card. For some, simple cash back makes the most sense, while others who may want more redemption options, such as travel, might prefer earning flexible points or miles. - Consider other spending categories:
The best way to maximize rewards cards is to choose cards that align with your spending style. To choose the best restaurant card, find one that has additional bonus categories you may spend a lot on, whether it’s groceries, travel, gas or entertainment. - Check the benefits and perks:
Beyond earnings, consider other benefits and perks when you’re looking for the best credit card for eating out. For example, some cards offer statement credits, consumer protections, welcome offers and more. - Know your credit score:
Typically, premium credit cards or cards with high-level rewards may require a strong credit score for approval. People with credit in the fair or good range can still find cards that offer credit card points or cash back, however.Use LendingTree Spring to check your credit score - Calculate the value:
When doing a reward credit card comparison, examine your spending habits to try to estimate your potential earnings over the course of a year. For instance, if you spend $200 per month on dining and a card offers 3% cash back at restaurants, that would be around $72 per year just on your dining spend. Then, factor in any annual fee to see if you come out ahead.
Frequently asked questions
The best earnings rate on dining is 5% that you can earn on the Citi Custom Cash® Card, but it’s only if restaurants is your top spending category for the month, and you’re capped at the first $500 you spend (or $25 in earnings per month). Otherwise, you can earn an unlimited 3% cash back on either the Chase Freedom Unlimited® or the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card.
What counts as dining on a rewards credit card may vary depending on the issuer. In general, restaurants, fast food chains and cafes are usually included. However, other food-related spending like bars, food delivery apps, bakeries, vending machines, catering, or meal kits may or may not be counted.
Chase has a few cards that earn elevated rewards on restaurant spending, but our top Chase card pick is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. It has a mid-tier $95 fee but provides outsized value for people who are able to maximize the bonus categories and card benefits. For restaurants specifically, you’ll earn 3 points per dollar on dining, plus the DoorDash perks are like the cherry on top if you like to order in.
The 2/3/4 rule is a Bank of America-specific policy that has not been publicly or officially confirmed. It refers to the bank limiting new applicants to two cards every month, three cards every 12 months, or four cards every 24 months. Credit issuers that have these types of rules regarding the number of credit cards you can get do so to prevent “churning,” which is when people sign up for new cards just to earn welcome offers.
The American Express® Gold Card offers 4 points per dollar spent (up to $50,000 in purchases) at restaurants worldwide. The American Express® Business Gold Card offers 4 points per dollar in your top two spending categories among six options, which include restaurants.
2. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
To see rates & fees for American Express cards mentioned on this page, visit the links provided below:
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the Citi Custom Cash® Card, Prime Visa, Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Freedom Flex® has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
