How dining rewards programs work and how to maximize rewards

Dining rewards programs let members earn rewards when they pay with a linked credit or debit card at participating restaurants. Eligible purchases could even earn rewards through both the dining rewards program and the linked credit card’s rewards program. 

Learn more about some different types of dining rewards programs, how they work and how to maximize rewards.

What you’ll learn:

• Dining rewards programs let you earn rewards on purchases with participating restaurants.

• These programs are often free to join, and all you usually need to do to earn rewards is pay with the card you linked to your dining rewards program account.

• There are several types of dining rewards programs, including airline programs, hotel programs and other programs unrelated to travel.

• You can maximize your rewards by linking your account with a rewards credit card.

Dining rewards programs typically work like this: You enroll in the program online and link your credit or debit card to your account. Then you earn rewards on eligible purchases made with the linked card at participating restaurants. 

There are many types of dining rewards programs out there. But for the most part, they tend to work similarly.

• Restaurants fund the rewards: Participating restaurants typically pay commissions to the dining rewards network. The rewards network then funds the loyalty program, which passes on some of that money—in the form of points, miles, cash back or statement credits—to its members.

• Reward options vary by program: Depending on the program, rewards may be earned as airline miles, hotel points, cash back or statement credits.

• Different earn rates: Some dining rewards programs offer tiered memberships. For example, you may qualify for a higher rewards rate by doing things like opting in to promotional emails or posting restaurant reviews.

There’s more than one type of dining rewards program, including: 

Many major U.S. airlines have loyalty programs that include dining rewards. So in addition to earning rewards for traveling, you can also earn rewards for spending at eligible restaurants—even when you’re home.

Similar to the airline programs, many hotel loyalty programs also have dining components. So you can earn rewards when you spend money at participating restaurants and redeem them for things like hotel stays.

There are also plenty of dining credit card programs available for those who might not be interested in programs tied to an airline or hotel. 

Capital One offers dining and entertainment credit cards that reward you whether you’re grabbing takeout, doing the weekly grocery run or enjoying dinner out with friends.

Some reservation portals offer rewards for booking and completing restaurant reservations. Members earn points that may be redeemed for things like dining credits or gift cards.

Some dining rewards programs let members earn rewards at a specific network of restaurants. Rewards can then be redeemed for things like discounts on your next meal or free menu items.

There isn’t one simple answer as to which dining rewards program is the best. The value of rewards can vary, and different programs may come with different perks and limitations. Here are a few things to consider.

• Spending habits: If you’re a frequent flyer, you may want to consider an airline rewards program that lets you earn miles you can redeem for travel. A hotel rewards program could be a good fit if you regularly stay with a particular hotel brand. If you don’t travel much, local or multi-restaurant loyalty programs may provide more opportunities to earn rewards.

• Opportunities to stack rewards: Because dining rewards programs work through linked cards, eligible purchases could earn rewards from both the dining program and a linked rewards credit card. This helps you maximize rewards on a single purchase.

• Fees and expiration: Many dining rewards programs are free to join, but other terms vary. Before enrolling, check whether rewards expire or if there are any restrictions on how and when you can redeem rewards. You may also want to check whether you can earn rewards on dining in, takeout orders or both.

Want to make the most of your dining rewards program? Here are some tips.

There are a lot of different types of credit cards out there, and many of them offer their own rewards. 

For example, foodies may want to link a dining and entertainment credit card to a dining rewards program to earn double rewards. Similarly, frequent travelers who opt for airline or hotel loyalty rewards programs might prefer to link their dining rewards program to a travel rewards credit card.

Many restaurants offer their own loyalty programs. So if you’re frequently spending money at certain restaurants, it might be worth asking if they have a rewards program you can join.

Some dining rewards programs provide opportunities to earn extra dining rewards. For instance, you might be asked to write reviews or complete surveys. Familiarizing yourself with your dining program’s rewards and keeping an eye out for information about earning bonus points can help you find more ways to earn rewards.

Dining rewards programs let you earn rewards for dining out at your favorite restaurants. And linking a rewards credit card to your dining rewards program account could help you earn even more rewards. 

If you’re looking for a rewards card, you can start by exploring dining and entertainment credit cards from Capital One.