11 Best Dining Credit Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated November 10, 2025

Dining out can become more rewarding when the right credit card is used. The best dining cards offer strong earning rates on restaurant purchases, giving cardholders extra value whether they prefer cash back, points, or travel rewards. This guide highlights 11 top options, showing how each card can fit different spending habits and reward goals.

  • American Express® Gold Card

    The American Express® Gold Card is designed for people who often spend on dining and groceries. It focuses on rewarding everyday purchases that many cardholders prioritize.

    It also includes dining perks and credits that help offset costs at select partners. This makes it a strong option for those who want rewards tied directly to food and restaurant spending. Membership Rewards points can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners for added travel value.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4x points at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per year, then 1x after)
    • 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year, then 1x after)
    • 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 within the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $325
    • APR: 20.74%–29.74% variable
    • Other benefits: Up to $120 annual dining credit ($10 per month at select partners)
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Charge card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Access to Amex Global Dining Collection

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards for dining and groceries
    • Monthly dining credits at eligible partners
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Travel rewards on flights
    • Access to exclusive dining experiences

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or shopping with partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, often starting around a 670 FICO score.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has a high annual fee and spending caps on bonus categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple, high rewards on common spending categories without complex rules.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular choice for people who want to earn rewards on dining and travel. It provides strong value through flexible points that can be used in several ways.

    Cardholders often choose it for its mix of everyday earning potential and travel-focused features. It balances rewards, protections, and redemption options without being overly complex.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards
    • 3x points on dining, select streaming services and online groceries
    • 2x points on travel purchases
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 19.99%–28.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Travel protection, purchase coverage, partner transfer options
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards rate on dining
    • Flexible redemption through Chase Ultimate Rewards
    • Travel and purchase protections included
    • Ability to transfer points to airline and hotel partners

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or transfers to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Good to excellent credit is recommended (typically FICO 670–850) for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has an annual fee and does not provide the highest rewards rate for non-dining categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple way to earn valuable points while keeping redemption options flexible.

  • Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card

    The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card is designed for small-business owners who often stay at Marriott hotels. It provides travel perks and rewards tailored to frequent travelers.

    This card also includes features that help cardholders earn points on everyday spending. It balances business-friendly benefits with hotel loyalty rewards and adds dining bonuses at participating Marriott restaurants.

    Earning Structure:

    • 6x points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels
    • 4x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, shipping, and wireless phone services
    • 2x points on all other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $125
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Free Night Award each year, elite night credits toward status
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Business credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Travel protection and purchase coverage

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn bonus points on dining and travel-related categories
    • Annual Free Night Award for hotel stays
    • Elite night credits toward Marriott Bonvoy status
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to Amex business tools and expense tracking

    Redemption Options:

    Cardholders can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for hotel stays, room upgrades, travel packages, and transfers to airline partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit, often starting around a FICO score of 670.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card’s value is strongest for those who stay at Marriott properties; casual travelers may find limited use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple earning categories and a free night each year, making it easy for new cardholders to see value without complex strategies.

  • Citi Strata℠ Card

    The Citi Strata℠ Card is part of Citi’s ThankYou Rewards lineup, designed for people who want flexible rewards on everyday purchases. It focuses on earning points that can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or transfers to partners.

    This card fits well for those who want to maximize dining and lifestyle spending while still having access to travel-focused perks. It offers a straightforward way to earn valuable points without being overly complex.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel® via cititravel.com
    • 3x points at supermarkets, select transit, and gas & EV charging stations
    • 3x points in one self-selected category (fitness clubs, select streaming, live entertainment, cosmetic stores/salons, or pet supply stores)
    • 2x points at restaurants
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 30,000 ThankYou points after spending $1,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 19.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Travel protection, purchase protections
    • Network: Mastercard (World or higher tier)
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Additional perks: Access to Citi ThankYou Rewards transfer partners

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong earning rate on dining
    • Flexible point transfers to airlines and hotels
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Useful travel protection
    • Access to Mastercard premium benefits

    Redemption Options:

    Cardholders can redeem ThankYou points for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or by transferring to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit, typically a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Earning rates drop to 1x point on purchases outside the bonus categories, limiting rewards for general spending.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It balances strong dining rewards with simple redemption choices, making it easier for new cardholders to learn how to maximize points.

  • Bilt Mastercard®

    The Bilt Mastercard® is a unique rewards card designed with renters in mind. It allows cardholders to earn points on rent payments without extra processing fees.

    Beyond rent, the card offers strong rewards in categories like dining and travel. It also provides travel protection and lets cardholders redeem points for flights or hotels. This makes it appealing for people who want everyday rewards without paying an annual fee.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points on dining purchases
    • 2x points on travel booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rentals
    • 1x points on rent payments (up to 100,000 points per year)
    • 1x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card does not currently offer a traditional welcome bonus.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 20.49%, 23.49%, or 28.49% variable
    • Other benefits: Cell phone protection, access to Bilt Dining, and monthly point-earning challenges
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Earn points on rent without extra fees
    • Strong dining and travel reward categories
    • Transferable points to airline and hotel partners

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel through transfer partners, fitness classes, home decor, or used toward rent payments.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, with a FICO score between 670 and 850.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card does not provide a sign-up bonus, which may limit upfront value compared to other dining cards.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It is easy to use, has no annual fee, and provides rewards on both rent and dining, making it a simple entry point into earning travel rewards.

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card focuses on everyday spending in popular categories. It is designed for people who often spend on dining, entertainment, and groceries. This card provides straightforward cash back rewards without requiring complex strategies. It also includes useful perks like no foreign transaction fees and flexible redemption options.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8% cash back on entertainment purchases booked through the Capital One Entertainment portal
    • 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn $200 cash back after spending $500 within the first three months of card membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 19.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Access to Capital One Travel portal, contactless payments
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Cash back
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Bonus categories include dining, entertainment, groceries, and streaming
    • Strong travel rewards when booking through Capital One Travel
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Simple flat cash back on other purchases

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, checks, or applied toward travel through Capital One.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670–850) to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Superstores like Walmart and Target do not qualify for grocery rewards.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers easy-to-understand rewards and no annual fee, making it a practical first rewards card.

  • American Express® Green Card

    The American Express® Green Card is designed for people who often spend on travel and dining. It focuses on rewarding everyday purchases in these categories with flexible points.

    This card also includes travel-related perks that make it appealing to frequent flyers and city commuters. It offers benefits like trip protection and no foreign transaction fees. Its rewards structure is straightforward, making it easy to understand and use.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points on dining at restaurants
    • 3x points on travel, including transit, flights, and hotels
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New applicants can earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 in the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $150
    • APR: Variable, around 20.24%–28.24%
    • Other benefits: Travel credits, statement credits on select purchases
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Charge card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards rate on dining and travel
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to Amex Offers for extra savings
    • Travel and purchase protections
    • Statement credits that offset costs

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, shopping, or transfers to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    For higher chances of approval, applicants generally need good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The $150 annual fee may not be worth it for those who spend little on travel or dining.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple earning structure and valuable welcome bonus make it easy for new cardholders to start building rewards.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

    The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is a mid-tier hotel credit card designed for frequent Hilton travelers. It gives cardholders extra rewards on travel and everyday spending while offering added perks at Hilton properties.

    It provides automatic elite status in the Hilton Honors program, which comes with benefits like room upgrades and late checkout. The card also helps members earn points quickly toward free hotel stays.

    Earning Structure:

    • 12x points at Hilton hotels and resorts
    • 6x points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations
    • 4x points on U.S. online retail purchases.
    • 3x points on other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in the first six months of card membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $150
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Hilton Gold status, Priority Pass Select (10 visits per year), free night certificate after spending threshold
    • Network: American Express
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong rewards on dining, groceries, and gas
    • Automatic Hilton Gold elite status
    • Free night certificate with qualifying spend
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to airport lounge visits

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for Hilton hotel stays, room upgrades, and other travel-related rewards within the Hilton Honors program.

    Credit Requirements:

    Best suited for applicants with good to excellent credit, typically a score of 700 or higher for better approval odds.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card is most valuable for Hilton loyalists, so those who rarely stay at Hilton properties may find limited use.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple ways to earn and redeem points while adding travel perks that are easy to use.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium rewards card designed for people who value travel and dining. It focuses on strong earning rates and flexible redemption options through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

    This card also provides access to luxury perks that appeal to frequent travelers. It combines everyday value with benefits that enhance both dining and travel experiences.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel, including The EditSM
    • 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct
    • 3x points on dining worldwide
    • 1x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card offers 125,000 bonus points for new cardholders after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $795
    • APR: Variable, around 20.24%–28.74%
    • Other benefits: Airport lounge access, travel protection, exclusive dining reservations
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • High rewards on dining and travel
    • Strong travel insurance protections
    • Access to airport lounges
    • Exclusive dining experiences
    • Flexible point transfer partners

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, transferred to airline or hotel partners, or used for cash back, gift cards, and other options.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants need excellent credit, with a FICO score of 740–850, to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee may not make sense for those who do not travel or dine out often.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides straightforward earning on dining and travel, making it simple for new cardholders to maximize rewards.

  • U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card

    The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card is designed for people who want a simple rewards card focused on dining and everyday spending. It offers a straightforward way to earn points without the need to track rotating categories.

    This card is part of the Visa Signature network, which means it comes with standard protections and perks. It is widely accepted and works well for those who want a reliable rewards card with no complicated rules.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4x points on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
    • 2x points at grocery stores, gas stations, and streaming services
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of joining.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • APR: 0% intro APR for 12 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers, and then APR variable of 17.74%-28.74%
    • Other benefits: $15 annual streaming credit (with qualifying purchases)
    • Network: Visa Signature
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Strong rewards rate for dining purchases
    • Extra rewards for groceries and streaming services
    • Annual streaming credit benefit
    • Accepted worldwide with no foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or as statement credits.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need an excellent credit score of at least 720 to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The streaming credit requires monthly use, and the rewards program may not be as flexible as premium travel cards.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It is easy to manage with no annual fee and clear earning categories, making it beginner-friendly.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

    The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is a premium travel credit card designed for Hilton loyalists. It provides strong hotel perks and travel benefits that can add value for frequent travelers.

    This card focuses on rewarding Hilton stays and includes useful travel protection. It also provides bonus points on dining purchases, adding extra value for cardholders who enjoy meals out or charge restaurant spending to the card.

    Earning Structure:

    • 14x points on Hilton hotels and resorts
    • 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel
    • 7x points on car rentals and U.S. restaurants
    • 3x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $550
    • APR: 20.24%–29.24% variable
    • Other benefits: Airline credits, Hilton resort credits, Free Night Reward
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: None

    Key Benefits:

    • Automatic Hilton Diamond elite status
    • Annual Free Night Reward
    • Up to $400 in Hilton resort credits each year
    • Airline incidental credits
    • Strong earning rates on Hilton stays

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for Hilton hotel stays, room upgrades, and transfer partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    The card requires good to excellent credit (FICO score of 670–850) for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee may not be worth it for those who rarely stay at Hilton properties.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers automatic elite status and easy redemption, allowing new travelers to see value without complicated strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do cash back rewards work with dining credit cards?

Cash back rewards usually return a percentage of each dining purchase as a statement credit or deposit. Some cards provide flat-rate rewards, while others give higher rates for dining and lower rates for other purchases. Redemption methods vary but often include direct cash, gift cards, or travel credits.

Can dining credit cards provide discounts at specific restaurants or chains?

Yes, many dining credit cards partner with restaurant networks or dining programs that offer extra rewards or savings. These perks may include statement credits, bonus points, or exclusive deals at participating locations. Availability varies by issuer and can change, so it’s best to review current offers before dining out.

What is the difference between a flat-rate and tiered rewards structure for dining purchases?

A flat-rate card gives the same rewards percentage on all purchases, including dining. A tiered card gives higher rewards on dining but lower rewards in other categories. Tiered cards may provide more value for those who spend heavily on restaurants, while flat-rate cards are simpler for balanced spending.

How do annual fees impact the value of dining credit card rewards?

Annual fees reduce the net value of rewards unless the cardholder spends enough to offset the cost. Premium cards with higher fees often provide travel credits, dining perks, or stronger earning rates to balance the expense. For lighter spenders, a no-fee card may be the better choice.

Do dining credit cards offer special rewards for food delivery services?

Some dining credit cards include enhanced rewards for popular delivery platforms or takeout orders. These benefits can match or exceed the rewards earned at restaurants. Availability depends on the issuer and may require using specific apps or merchants.