Dining out is a big part of my routine—whether it’s quick takeout after work, weekend brunch with friends, or grabbing lunch between errands. But those meals can add up fast. Over the last year, I’ve found a system that helps me dine out for less using a mix of rewards apps, cashback platforms, and deal trackers. Here’s exactly how I use apps to stretch my restaurant budget every week—without sacrificing where or what I eat.
- I always check Fluz for cashback gift cards
Before I place any restaurant order, I open Fluz to see if the spot offers cashback through gift cards. The platform supports dozens of restaurant chains, and I can buy a digital gift card for the exact amount I plan to spend. That means if my total is $13.47, I buy a $13.47 gift card and get a percentage of that back—instantly.
For example, when I want Chipotle, I’ll earn cashback with a Chipotle gift card. When it’s a coffee run, I’ll get rewards with a Panera Bread gift card. The process takes seconds, and I use the gift card right away. No leftover balances, no extra work.
- I stack rewards with loyalty programs
Most major chains have free rewards programs. I use Chipotle Rewards, MyPanera, and Chili’s Rewards, among others. These programs give you points for each purchase—whether you pay by credit card, app, or gift card.
So when I use a Fluz gift card to pay, I’m not only getting cashback from the purchase—I’m also earning loyalty points from the restaurant. This double-stack strategy is one of the easiest ways to make every dollar count.
- I use Rakuten and Ibotta for online restaurant orders
If I’m ordering delivery or pickup through a restaurant’s website or app, I check whether Rakuten or Ibotta offers cashback for that merchant. For example, some chains offer 2–6% back just for clicking through these platforms before placing your order.
It doesn’t always apply to in-person dining, but when it does, it’s a great way to stack one more layer of savings onto an already planned meal.
- I watch for promo stacking opportunities
Some of my best savings happen when I combine all three methods:
- I buy a restaurant gift card with cashback on Fluz
- Use the restaurant’s own app or site to place an order and earn loyalty points
- Activate a promo through Rakuten or Ibotta on the purchase
This stacking technique usually gives me 5–15% back across apps—and sometimes more when Fluz offers boosted rates.
- I set deal alerts and watch seasonal offers
I subscribe to emails from my favorite restaurants and use Slickdeals to get alerts for dining deals. Holiday seasons and back-to-school periods are especially strong for gift card bonuses and limited-time offers.
Takeaway
With a few apps and a consistent routine, I save money every time I eat out. Whether I’m using Fluz to earn cashback with a restaurant gift card or stacking it with loyalty points and cashback apps, the savings add up quickly—and they don’t require major effort. Once you build the habit, it’s just how you order.
