Let’s be honest: most of us have that moment when the check arrives and everyone awkwardly fumbles with their wallets. But what if being the one who pays — and then gets reimbursed by friends — was actually the smartest financial move at the table?
With the right credit card, you can earn serious rewards just by paying for dinner (and maybe a few drinks). Here are three credit cards that actually make it worth volunteering your card next time you go out.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
This card is a favorite for a reason — and it goes far beyond just travel perks. The Chase Sapphire Preferred (see rates and fees) gives you big value when you dine out and currently has one of the biggest sign-up bonuses we’ve ever seen: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. We estimate that to be worth up to $1,250 in Chase Travel℠ value.
Why it’s great:
- Earn 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries.
- Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Travel℠ — so 10,000 points equals $125 toward flights, hotels, or car rentals.
The strategy: Pay for dinner, rack up points, and use those points for your next weekend getaway or vacation. Apply now for a chance to earn the limited-time sign-up bonus — worth up to $1,250 in Chase Travel℠ value.
2. American Express® Gold Card
Why it’s great:
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 per year); and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
- Get $120 in annual dining credits (up to $10/month) at select partners like Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, and more.
- Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or even statement credits.
- Terms apply; enrollment may be required.
Real talk: If you regularly dine out or order in, those points can stack up fast — especially if you’re covering the bill and getting reimbursed by your friends. It turns your social life into a points-earning machine. Apply for the Amex Gold Card today.
3. Wells Fargo Autograph® Card
Why it’s great:
- Earn 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans.
- $0 annual fee.
- Comes with cellphone protection when you pay your bill with the card.
- 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. (The go-to 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR applies at the end of the intro period.)
Why it works: This card rewards you for the full night out — dinner, ride share, and even your Netflix at home after. And since there’s no annual fee, it’s a great entry-level rewards card for anyone looking to maximize their everyday spending.
If you’re interested in a well-rounded card that rewards your whole lifestyle, apply for the Wells Fargo Autograph Card today.
Go ahead, pick up the check
With one of these credit cards in your wallet, paying for dinner isn’t just generous — it’s smart. You earn rewards, your friends Venmo you their share, and you come out ahead. Just don’t forget to tip well (you are getting all the points, after all).
