1.The Platinum Card from American Express
American Express
- 3Points on eligible purchases
- 1Points on all other purchases
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards points + £250 Amex Travel credit for spending £6,000 in 3 months.
Earn 3 Membership Rewards points for every £1 spent on eligible purchases.
688.5% APR variable
The Platinum Card from American Express stands out as the top choice because it offers unparalleled travel benefits, including extensive lounge access and a substantial welcome bonus, making it ideal for frequent travelers who can leverage its perks.
Pros:
- Extensive travel perks
- High rewards on travel spending
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires significant spending to maximize benefits
2.American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card
American Express
- 3Points on travel booked through Amex Travel
- 2Points on airlines and overseas spending
- 1Points on all other purchases
Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend £5,000 in the first six months.
Earn 3 Membership Rewards points on travel booked through Amex Travel.
86.3% APR variable
What sets the American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card apart is its flexible rewards structure, allowing cardholders to earn significant points on travel and dining, making it an excellent choice for those who can maximize their spending.
Pros:
- No annual fee in the first year
- Flexible rewards structure
Cons:
- High APR
- Requires balance to be paid in full monthly
3.Amex Nectar Card
American Express
- 2Points on all purchases
- 3Points at Nectar partners
Earn 20,000 Nectar points when you spend £2,000 in the first three months.
Earn 2 Nectar points for every £1 spent.
36.1% APR variable
The standout feature of the Amex Nectar Card is its high earn rate of 2 Nectar points per £1 spent, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently shop at Nectar partners and want to maximize their rewards.
Pros:
- High earn rate on everyday spending
- Bonus points at Nectar partners
Cons:
- Annual fee after the first year
- High APR if balance is carried
4.British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
American Express
- 3Avios on British Airways purchases
- 1.5Avios on all other purchases
Collect 50,000 Avios when you spend £6,000 in the first three months.
Earn 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent.
136.4% APR variable
This card shines for its high Avios earning potential and the valuable Companion Voucher, making it a top choice for frequent British Airways flyers looking to maximize their rewards.
Pros:
- High Avios earning rate
- Companion Voucher for frequent flyers
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires significant spending for benefits
5.Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard
Barclaycard
- 1.5Avios on all purchases
Collect 25,000 Avios when you spend £3,000 in the first three months.
Earn 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent.
80.1% APR variable
A key differentiator for the Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard is its competitive earning rate of 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, making it a solid option for those looking to accumulate Avios on everyday purchases.
Pros:
- Strong Avios earning rate
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- Monthly fee adds up
- High APR if balance is carried
6.Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Mastercard
Virgin Atlantic
- 1.5Virgin Points on all purchases
Earn 21,000 bonus points with your first card purchase made within 90 days.
Earn 1.5 Virgin Points for every £1 spent.
69.7% APR variable
The Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Mastercard is particularly appealing for its high earn rate of 1.5 Virgin Points per £1 spent, making it a great choice for those who frequently travel with Virgin Atlantic.
Pros:
- High earn rate on Virgin purchases
- Bonus points for new cardholders
Cons:
- Annual fee
- High APR if balance is carried
Final Words
As you consider the best restaurant credit cards this January, remember that the right choice can enhance your dining experiences and provide valuable rewards. Take time to compare the features and benefits of each option to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards points + £250 Amex Travel credit for spending £6,000 in 3 months.
Earn 3 Membership Rewards points on travel booked through Amex Travel, 2 points on airlines and overseas spending, and 1 point on all other purchases.
The annual fee for the Amex Nectar Card is £30, but it is £0 in your first year.
Consider factors such as the welcome bonus, reward rates, annual fees, and any additional benefits like dining credits or partnerships with restaurants. Assess your spending habits to find a card that offers the best value for your typical restaurant expenses.
Eligibility requirements may vary by card issuer but typically include being at least 18 years old, having a good credit score, and meeting income criteria. It's advisable to check the specific terms when applying for a card.
To maximize rewards, use your card for all eligible dining purchases and be mindful of any promotional categories that offer increased points. Also, take advantage of sign-up bonuses by reaching the required spending thresholds early.
Earn 2 Nectar points for every £1 spent, and you can earn 3 points at Nectar partners. This can be a great way to accumulate points for groceries or other rewards.
