Are you tired of missing out on rewards every time you dine out with your loved once. ? Whether you’re a foodie who explores new restaurants weekly or someone who simply enjoys good meals with family, the right credit card can transform your dining cost into more savings and rewards. With Indian houshold members increasingly dining out and ordering food online from apps like Swiggy and Zomato, choosing the best credit card for restaurants or eating out has become more important than ever.
The dining landscape in India has evolved dramatically after Covid -19 , with restaurant spending now accounting for a significant portion of monthly budgets for urban households because of more Urbanization and avaiablity of good restautant in small town as well . Yet, many diners leave money on the table by not leveraging credit cards that offer specialized dining rewards. The best credit card for dining can offer you accelerated reward points, complimentary meals, exclusive discounts, and even access to premium dining experiences.
In this blog, we’ll walk through the 10 best credit cards for eating out in India. Whether you’re looking for cards with the highest reward rates, exclusive American Express dining offers, or specialized benefits like EazyDiner IndusInd or Diners Club privileges, we’ve analyzed each option to help you make an informed decision. From premium cards like the HDFC Diners Club Black to budget-friendly options like the Kotak Delight Platinum, we’ve covered cards across all spending profiles.
How We Selected These Cards
Our selection method to find best dining out credit card combines rigorous testing with real-world usage scenarios. We analyzed each card based on several critical factors: reward rates specifically for restaurant spending, annual fees versus benefits value, acceptance at popular dining establishments, complimentary dining programs, partner restaurant networks, ease of reward redemption, and additional perks like lounges or travel benefits.
We also considered user reviews from actual cardholders, tested customer service responsiveness, and evaluated the fine print to understand limitations. Our rankings prioritize cards that offer genuine value for dining enthusiasts, whether you’re an occasional diner or a restaurant regular. Each recommendation is backed by data and real-world testing to ensure you get practical, actionable advice.
Top 10 Credit Cards for Restaurants in India
#1. HDFC Diners Club Black – The Ultimate Dining Rewards Card
Overview
The HDFC Diners Club Black stands as the gold standard for restaurant rewards in India. This premium credit card combines exceptional reward rates with exclusive dining privileges through the Club Vistara membership and extensive 1+1 dining offers across India’s finest restaurants. If dining out is a significant part of your lifestyle, this card delivers unmatched value despite its premium positioning.
Key Features
- 10 reward points per ₹150 spent on dining, equivalent to 3.33% reward rate
- Complimentary Club Vistara Gold membership with joining and renewal benefits
- Access to 1+1 dining offers at over 1,500 restaurants across India
- Complimentary domestic and international airport lounge access (unlimited)
- Global acceptance at Diners Club and Discover network merchants
- Milestone benefits including bonus reward points on annual spending thresholds
User Benefits
- Save significantly on fine dining experiences through the extensive 1+1 offer program
- Earn accelerated rewards on every restaurant bill that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or vouchers
- Enjoy premium travel experiences with Club Vistara benefits and airport lounge access
- Access exclusive dining events and culinary experiences through Diners Club privileges
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 10X rewards on dining (3.33% return) | Annual fee of ₹10,000 |
| 1+1 offers at 1,500+ restaurants | Limited acceptance compared to Visa/Mastercard |
| Complimentary Club Vistara Gold membership | Requires excellent credit score |
| Unlimited lounge access globally | Benefits best for high spenders |
| Flexible reward redemption | Premium positioning may not suit all budgets |
Best For
Frequent diners who spend ₹30,000+ monthly on restaurants and travel, premium lifestyle enthusiasts seeking exclusive experiences, and individuals who value both dining and travel rewards in a single card.
Why We Recommend It
The HDFC Diners Club Black delivers the highest reward rate for dining in India combined with practical benefits like 1+1 offers that provide immediate value. While the annual fee is substantial, cardholders who dine out regularly 2-3 times per week easily recover this cost through rewards and dining discounts. The Club Vistara membership alone offsets a significant portion of the annual fee.
Read Full Review on HDFC Diners Club Black
#2. HDFC Regalia Gold – Premium Rewards Without Breaking the Bank
Overview
The HDFC Regalia Gold offers a sweet spot between premium benefits and accessible annual fees. This card appeals to diners who want strong rewards on restaurant spending without committing to the super-premium category. With respectable reward rates and valuable dining partnerships, it’s an excellent choice for growing professionals and young families.
Key Features
- 4 reward points per ₹150 spent on all transactions including dining
- Access to SmartBuy platform with accelerated rewards (10X on travel bookings)
- Complimentary domestic airport lounge access (8 visits per year)
- Lower annual fee of ₹2,500 with easier fee waiver conditions
- MasterCard World benefits including dining and lifestyle privileges
- Annual milestone benefits with bonus reward points
User Benefits
- Earn consistent rewards across all spending categories including restaurants
- Redeem points for statement credits, gift vouchers, or travel bookings
- Enjoy occasional premium experiences without the premium price tag
- Build credit history with a respected premium card that’s easier to qualify for
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Balanced ₹2,500 annual fee | Lower 4X rewards vs specialized cards |
| 10X rewards on SmartBuy platform | Only 8 complimentary lounge visits |
| Wide MasterCard acceptance | Fewer exclusive dining partnerships |
| Easier qualification requirements | Milestone benefits require higher spending |
| Flexible rewards program | Not optimized solely for dining |
Best For
Young professionals and families spending ₹50,000-₹1 lakh monthly across categories, those seeking a balance between dining rewards and overall lifestyle benefits, and individuals stepping up from entry-level cards.
Why We Recommend It
The HDFC Regalia Gold strikes an excellent balance for diners who want good rewards without specializing entirely in restaurant spending. If you dine out 4-5 times monthly and spend across other categories too, this card offers better overall value than single-category specialists. The SmartBuy platform’s 10X rewards on dining vouchers provide a strategic way to maximize returns.
Read Full Review on HDFC Regalia Gols
#3. HDFC Swiggy Credit Card – The Food Delivery Champion
Overview
Purpose-built for India’s food delivery ecosystem, the HDFC Swiggy Credit Card is a game-changer for anyone who regularly orders food online. With industry-leading cashback on Swiggy orders and solid rewards on restaurant dining, this card bridges the gap between online ordering and dine-in experiences. The zero annual fee in the first year makes it accessible to younger demographics.
Key Features
- 10% cashback on Swiggy food orders and Swiggy Instamart
- 5% cashback on all other online food delivery platforms and dining
- Complimentary Swiggy One membership for 3 months (worth ₹1,199)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Zero annual fee for the first year, ₹500 thereafter (waived on ₹2 lakhs annual spend)
- Instant discounts on dining vouchers through HDFC portal
User Benefits
- Save substantially on weekly food delivery orders with consistent 10% cashback
- Enjoy free delivery benefits through Swiggy One membership
- Earn rewards even when dining out at restaurants
- No fee pressure in the first year to test the card’s benefits
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 10% cashback on Swiggy orders | Benefits skewed toward Swiggy ecosystem |
| 5% on all dining and food delivery | Minimal rewards on non-dining spend |
| Free first year, low ₹500 annual fee | No premium perks like lounge access |
| Complimentary Swiggy One membership | Cashback may have monthly caps |
| Universal Visa acceptance | Not ideal for pure dine-in enthusiasts |
Best For
Millennials and Gen-Z who order food online multiple times weekly, Swiggy power users who also dine out occasionally, students and young professionals seeking low-fee cards with high utility, and urban dwellers in metros with extensive Swiggy coverage.
Why We Recommend It
For the modern diner who balances food delivery with restaurant visits, the HDFC Swiggy Credit Card offers unbeatable value. If you order food online twice weekly and dine out once, the 10% + 5% cashback structure delivers immediate, tangible savings. The minimal fee and simple reward structure make it perfect for credit card beginners too.
Read Full Review on HDFC Swiggy Card
#4. SBI Prime Credit Card – Reliable Rewards for Steady Diners
Overview
The SBI Prime Credit Card represents old-school reliability meeting modern rewards. As one of India’s most trusted banking brands, SBI offers a no-nonsense credit card that delivers consistent value across dining and lifestyle categories. With reasonable fees and solid reward rates, it appeals to conservative spenders who prioritize stability and wide acceptance over flashy benefits.
Key Features
- 5 reward points per ₹100 spent on dining, groceries, and departmental stores
- 1 reward point per ₹100 on other categories
- Welcome benefit of 5,000 bonus reward points
- Annual fee reversal on spending ₹2 lakhs in a year
- Fuel surcharge waiver at all petrol pumps
- Complimentary railway lounge access and airport lounge (4 times per year)
User Benefits
- Earn steady rewards on everyday dining expenses without category restrictions
- Redeem points for merchandise, vouchers, or travel bookings through SBI Rewardz
- Access railway lounges for comfortable travel experiences
- Leverage SBI’s vast banking network for seamless card services
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 5X rewards on dining and groceries | Lower rewards vs premium cards |
| Trusted SBI brand and network | Limited dining partnerships |
| Fuel surcharge waiver nationwide | Only 4 airport lounge visits |
| Unique railway lounge access | Redemption options less competitive |
| Annual fee waivable on ₹2L spend | Conservative benefits package |
Best For
Salaried professionals seeking reliable rewards without premium complexity, SBI account holders who prefer banking relationship consolidation, conservative spenders who value brand trust and wide acceptance, and individuals who frequently travel by train.
Why We Recommend It
The SBI Prime Credit Card won’t wow you with flashy benefits, but it delivers dependable value for regular diners. If you prefer straightforward rewards without navigating complex benefit structures, and you value SBI’s extensive service network, this card provides peace of mind alongside decent returns. It’s particularly appealing for those transitioning from basic to premium cards.
Read Full Review On SBI Prime Credit Card
#5. Axis Bank Select Credit Card – Smart Rewards for Selective Spenders
Overview
Axis Bank Select positions itself as a versatile rewards card that performs admirably across dining and lifestyle categories. With competitive reward rates and strategic partnerships, it caters to urban professionals who want flexibility. The card’s strength lies in its balanced approach—offering good dining rewards while maintaining strong performance in other spending categories.
Key Features
- 10 Edge Rewards per ₹200 spent on dining and other lifestyle categories
- 2 Edge Rewards per ₹200 on other spends
- Welcome bonus reward points on card issuance
- Complimentary movie tickets quarterly
- Fuel surcharge waiver across India
- Access to Axis Vistara partnership benefits
User Benefits
- Accumulate flexible Edge Rewards redeemable across multiple categories
- Enjoy quarterly entertainment with complimentary movie tickets
- Leverage Axis Bank’s extensive merchant partnerships for dining discounts
- Convert rewards to airline miles with participating frequent flyer programs
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 10X rewards on dining | Rewards calculated per ₹200 spent |
| Flexible Edge Rewards program | No extensive 1+1 dining network |
| Quarterly complimentary movie tickets | Annual fee harder to waive |
| Strong Vistara partnership | Minimum redemption thresholds apply |
| Comprehensive digital features | Middle-tier positioning lacks uniqueness |
Best For
Urban professionals spending ₹75,000-₹1.5 lakhs monthly, existing Axis Bank customers seeking card benefits, versatile spenders who dine out while spending across categories, and individuals who value movie entertainment alongside dining.
Why We Recommend It
Axis Bank Select offers well-rounded value for diners who don’t want a single-purpose card. If your spending includes restaurants, movies, groceries, and travel, this card’s balanced reward structure serves you better than highly specialized alternatives. The Edge Rewards flexibility and Vistara partnership create additional value for travelers.
[Apply for Axis Bank Select Credit Card]
#6. IndusInd Bank EazyDiner Credit Card – The Restaurant Insider’s Choice
Overview
The IndusInd Bank EazyDiner Credit Card represents a specialized partnership between banking and dining discovery. Built specifically for restaurant enthusiasts, this card integrates with the EazyDiner platform to deliver exclusive dining experiences, substantial discounts, and curated restaurant access. It’s designed for diners who view restaurants as experiences, not just meals.
Key Features
- Complimentary EazyDiner Prime membership (worth ₹3,999 annually)
- 25% instant discount at 3,000+ partner restaurants through EazyDiner
- 10 reward points per ₹150 spent on dining transactions
- Additional 10X rewards on EazyDiner app bookings
- Complimentary airport lounge access (domestic and international)
- Annual dining vouchers and exclusive chef’s table experiences
User Benefits
- Save immediately with 25% off at thousands of restaurants across major cities
- Discover new dining experiences through EazyDiner’s curated recommendations
- Access exclusive reservations at hard-to-book restaurants
- Earn accelerated rewards specifically optimized for restaurant spending
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complimentary EazyDiner Prime membership | Premium ₹4,999 annual fee |
| 25% instant discount at 3,000+ restaurants | Benefits limited to partner network |
| 10X rewards on dining | Less useful in smaller cities |
| Exclusive reservations and experiences | Must use EazyDiner platform |
| Airport lounge access included | Requires dining preference alignment |
Best For
Restaurant explorers in major metros who frequently try new dining venues, premium diners who value exclusive experiences and reservations, EazyDiner app users who book restaurants regularly, and food enthusiasts willing to pay for curated dining access.
Why We Recommend It
The EazyDiner IndusInd Bank Credit Card excels when your dining habits align with its partner network. If you’re adventurous, enjoy discovering restaurants through apps, and dine at varied establishments rather than the same neighborhood spots, the 25% discount and Prime benefits deliver exceptional value. Metro residents get maximum benefit from the extensive partner network.
[Read Full Review on IndusInd Eazy Diner Credit Card]
#7. Kotak Delight Platinum Credit Card – Budget-Friendly Dining Rewards
Overview
The Kotak Delight Platinum Credit Card proves that effective dining rewards don’t require premium annual fees. Positioned as an accessible option for middle-income professionals, this card delivers respectable rewards on restaurant spending while maintaining a minimal fee structure. It’s ideal for those building credit history or seeking a secondary card focused on dining without financial strain.
Key Features
- 4% value back on dining transactions across all restaurants
- Additional bonus rewards on weekend dining spends
- Low annual fee of ₹750 (waivable on minimal annual spending)
- Fuel surcharge waiver at all petrol stations
- Welcome benefit vouchers for popular dining brands
- Easy approval criteria for emerging credit profiles
User Benefits
- Enjoy immediate value back on every restaurant visit without complex calculations
- Access entry-level premium benefits without financial pressure
- Build credit score through responsible usage of a rewards card
- Leverage weekend bonus to maximize returns on leisure dining
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low ₹750 annual fee | Only 4% rewards vs 5-10% from premium cards |
| Simple 4% value back structure | No premium perks or lounge access |
| Weekend dining bonus rewards | Monthly reward caps may apply |
| Easy approval for building credit | Limited exclusive dining offers |
| Universal Visa acceptance | Basic benefit package overall |
Best For
Young professionals and students seeking first rewards cards, budget-conscious diners wanting some benefits without premium fees, secondary card users who want specialized dining focus, and individuals with developing credit profiles (650-750 credit score).
Why We Recommend It
The Kotak Delight Platinum represents excellent value for budget-conscious diners. If you’re not ready for premium annual fees but want meaningful returns on restaurant spending, this card delivers. The 4% value back, while modest, adds up quickly for regular diners, and the minimal fee eliminates the pressure to maximize benefits. It’s also an excellent starter card for building credit.
#8. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card – Global Dining Excellence
Overview
The American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card brings international dining prestige to India. While primarily positioned as a travel card, its dining benefits—especially for those who travel internationally—are exceptional. The exclusive Amex dining offers and global acceptance at premium restaurants make this card indispensable for sophisticated diners who value worldwide experiences.
Key Features
- Access to exclusive American Express dining offers globally
- Taj InnerCircle membership benefits at Taj Hotels restaurants
- 5 Membership Rewards points per ₹50 spent on travel and dining
- Complimentary Priority Pass membership for airport lounges
- Travel insurance and emergency assistance globally
- Fine Hotels & Resorts program with exclusive dining credits
User Benefits
- Enjoy premium dining experiences at luxury hotels and restaurants worldwide
- Access American Express’ curated dining events and chef collaborations
- Accumulate flexible Membership Rewards transferable to airline partners
- Receive VIP treatment at Amex partner establishments
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exclusive global dining experiences | High ₹5,000-₹10,000 annual fee |
| American Express dining offers | Limited acceptance at local restaurants |
| Taj InnerCircle luxury benefits | Optimized for international travelers |
| Flexible Membership Rewards | Requires substantial spending |
| Premium concierge services | Not ideal for budget dining |
Best For
Frequent international travelers who dine at luxury establishments, premium diners who value exclusive experiences over cashback, individuals with ₹2+ lakh monthly spending, and luxury hotel guests who regularly dine at premium properties.
Why We Recommend It
The Amex Platinum Travel shines for global citizens who dine at premium establishments worldwide. If your dining includes luxury hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and exclusive venues—whether in Mumbai or Manhattan—the Amex dining offers and Taj benefits provide unmatched value. However, it’s overkill for local, everyday dining needs.
#9. EazyDiner IndusInd Bank Credit Card – Premium Dining Discovery
Overview
The EazyDiner IndusInd Bank Credit Card (distinct from #6, this is the higher-tier variant) elevates the dining experience to connoisseur levels. With enhanced EazyDiner benefits and premium rewards structure, this card caters to serious food enthusiasts who view dining as lifestyle investment. The card integrates deeply with the EazyDiner ecosystem to deliver insider access to India’s culinary scene.
Key Features
- Complimentary EazyDiner Prime Plus membership (worth ₹7,999 annually)
- Up to 50% instant discount at select premium restaurants
- 15 reward points per ₹150 spent on dining (5% return)
- Priority restaurant reservations at exclusive venues
- Chef’s table experiences and culinary events access
- Unlimited domestic and international lounge access
User Benefits
- Experience significant savings at high-end restaurants through enhanced discounts
- Gain insider access to restaurant reservations that public can’t easily book
- Attend exclusive food festivals, wine tastings, and chef collaborations
- Earn top-tier rewards specifically optimized for premium dining
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| EazyDiner Prime Plus membership | Premium ₹7,500-₹10,000 annual fee |
| Up to 50% discounts at premium venues | Metro-centric partner network |
| 15X rewards (5% return) on dining | Must regularly use EazyDiner platform |
| Priority reservations at exclusive restaurants | Benefits suited only for frequent premium diners |
| Access to culinary events | High spending needed to justify cost |
Best For
Food connoisseurs who dine at upscale restaurants weekly, metro residents who actively explore the dining scene, professionals entertaining clients at premium venues, and EazyDiner power users seeking enhanced benefits.
Why We Recommend It
For serious food enthusiasts in major metros, this card transforms dining from expense to investment. If you’re dining at restaurants where bills exceed ₹3,000-₹5,000 per visit and you do this 2-3 times weekly, the 50% discounts and priority reservations deliver tremendous value. The exclusive culinary experiences justify the premium for those who view food as lifestyle.
#10. Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card – International Dining Excellence
Overview
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card combines robust global acceptance with attractive dining rewards. Designed for international lifestyles, this card excels at both domestic and overseas dining while providing comprehensive travel benefits. It’s particularly strong for diners who split time between India and international destinations or frequently entertain international guests.
Key Features
- 5X rewards on dining, travel, and international spends
- Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access globally
- Complimentary golf rounds at participating courses
- International travel insurance and emergency assistance
- No foreign currency markup on international transactions
- Milestone benefits including luxury hotel stays
User Benefits
- Earn accelerated rewards on dining whether in India or abroad
- Save on currency conversion when dining internationally
- Access global lounge network for comfortable travel
- Leverage golf course access for business entertaining with dining
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 5X rewards on dining and international spend | ₹5,000 annual fee |
| Zero forex markup saves on overseas dining | Fewer India-specific dining partners |
| Unlimited global Priority Pass | Less competitive for domestic-only users |
| Comprehensive travel insurance | Requires strong credit qualification |
| Golf course access for entertaining | Optimization needs international component |
Best For
International travelers who dine abroad frequently, NRIs and globally mobile professionals, business travelers entertaining international clients, and individuals with significant international spending (30%+ of total).
Why We Recommend It
The Standard Chartered Ultimate excels when your dining extends beyond Indian borders. If you travel internationally for business or pleasure and dine at overseas restaurants regularly, the zero forex markup alone saves substantial amounts. Combined with 5X rewards and global lounge access, it’s ideal for internationally-minded diners who want one card for worldwide use.
Comparison Table: Best Credit Cards for Restaurants
| Card Name | Best For | Annual Fee | Dining Reward Rate | Key Dining Feature | Network |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Diners Club Black | Premium dining enthusiasts | ₹10,000 | 10X (3.33%) | 1+1 offers at 1,500+ restaurants | Diners Club |
| HDFC Regalia Gold | Balanced rewards seekers | ₹2,500 | 4X (1.33%) | SmartBuy 10X on vouchers | MasterCard |
| HDFC Swiggy Credit Card | Food delivery users | ₹0 (1st year) | 10% Swiggy / 5% others | Swiggy One membership | Visa |
| SBI Prime Credit Card | Reliable steady rewards | ₹2,999 | 5X | Railway lounge access | Visa |
| Axis Bank Select | Versatile spenders | ₹3,000+ | 10X | Quarterly movie tickets | Visa |
| IndusInd EazyDiner | Restaurant explorers | ₹4,999 | 10X + 25% discount | EazyDiner Prime membership | Visa |
| Kotak Delight Platinum | Budget-conscious diners | ₹750 | 4% value back | Weekend bonus rewards | Visa |
| Amex Platinum Travel | Global luxury dining | ₹5,000-₹10,000 | 5X on travel/dining | Exclusive Amex dining offers | American Express |
| EazyDiner IndusInd (Premium) | Food connoisseurs | ₹7,500-₹10,000 | 15X (5%) | 50% discounts + priority reservations | Visa |
| Standard Chartered Ultimate | International diners | ₹5,000 | 5X | Zero forex markup | Visa |
Additional Comparison Factors:
- Acceptance: Visa cards have widest acceptance, followed by MasterCard. Diners Club and Amex have limited acceptance at smaller establishments.
- Fee Waiver: HDFC Swiggy (easiest), Kotak Delight (₹50K spend), HDFC Diners Black (₹5L spend), others vary.
- Lounge Access: Unlimited (HDFC Diners Black, EazyDiner Premium, SC Ultimate), Limited (SBI Prime-4, Regalia Gold-8), None (Swiggy, Kotak).
- Best for Beginners: HDFC Swiggy or Kotak Delight Platinum offer low barriers to entry.
How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Restaurants
Selecting the best credit card for dining out requires aligning card benefits with your personal dining habits and financial situation. Start by analyzing your monthly dining behavior: How often do you dine out versus order food delivery? What’s your average bill size? Do you prefer neighborhood restaurants or upscale establishments? Do you dine more on weekends or weekdays?
Key Decision Factors:
Spending Patterns: If you spend ₹10,000+ monthly on restaurants, premium cards with higher annual fees but better rewards (like HDFC Diners Club Black or EazyDiner variants) will deliver net positive value. For spending below ₹5,000 monthly, low-fee options like Kotak Delight or HDFC Swiggy make more sense.
Dining Preferences: Food delivery enthusiasts should prioritize the HDFC Swiggy card’s 10% cashback. Restaurant explorers benefit from EazyDiner partnerships. Luxury diners gain most from Amex or Diners Club’s exclusive programs.
Fee vs. Benefits Analysis: Calculate your breakeven point. A ₹10,000 annual fee card needs to deliver ₹10,000+ in value through rewards, discounts, and perks. Track your dining spending for 2-3 months to forecast annual benefits realistically.
Acceptance Matters: If you frequently visit small, local restaurants, Visa and MasterCard offer better acceptance than Diners Club or Amex. Check if your favorite restaurants accept your preferred card network before committing.
Redemption Preferences: Do you prefer instant cashback (simpler), reward points (more flexible), or statement credits? HDFC Swiggy offers cashback, while Diners Club and Amex provide points. Choose based on what you’ll actually use.
Complementary Benefits: Consider whether you value travel perks (lounges, insurance), entertainment (movies), or pure dining focus. Cards like Standard Chartered Ultimate and Amex Platinum Travel provide comprehensive lifestyle benefits beyond dining.
Ask yourself: “Will I actually use the exclusive dining programs?” Many cardholders pay for 1+1 offers but never redeem them. Be honest about your likelihood of using special benefits versus simple cashback or points.
Conclusion
Choosing the best credit card for restaurants ultimately depends on your unique dining lifestyle and spending capacity. For premium diners seeking maximum rewards and exclusive experiences, the HDFC Diners Club Black delivers unmatched value with its 10X rewards and extensive 1+1 dining network. If you’re a food delivery enthusiast who also dines out, the HDFC Swiggy Credit Card offers the perfect blend of 10% Swiggy cashback and 5% on all other dining. For budget-conscious diners who want meaningful rewards without premium fees, the Kotak Delight Platinum provides an accessible entry point.
Remember that the best credit card for dining out is one you’ll actually use consistently and whose annual fee is justified by the benefits you actively redeem. Don’t be swayed by flashy benefits if they don’t align with your real dining habits. Start by tracking your dining spending for a month, then select a card whose reward structure matches those patterns.
Most cards offer free first-year trials or easy cancellation within the fee waiver period, so you can test-drive benefits risk-free. Take advantage of welcome bonuses and initial offers to maximize early value while you evaluate whether the card suits your lifestyle.
As the Indian dining landscape continues evolving with new restaurants, delivery platforms, and payment technologies, having the right credit card for restaurants ensures you’re always getting maximum value from every meal. Make your choice today, and start transforming your dining expenses into rewarding experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best credit card for restaurants in India for heavy spenders?
A: The HDFC Diners Club Black is the best credit card for dining for those spending ₹30,000+ monthly on restaurants. With 10X rewards (3.33% return), 1+1 offers at 1,500+ restaurants, and complimentary Club Vistara Gold membership, it delivers exceptional value despite the ₹10,000 annual fee. Heavy spenders easily recover the fee through rewards and dining discounts within the first quarter.
Q: Which credit card offers the highest cashback specifically for food delivery apps?
A: The HDFC Swiggy Credit Card leads with 10% cashback on Swiggy orders and Swiggy Instamart, plus 5% on all other food delivery platforms and dining. With zero annual fee in the first year and complimentary Swiggy One membership, it’s the clear winner for food delivery enthusiasts who order multiple times weekly.
Q: Are EazyDiner credit cards worth the premium annual fee?
A: EazyDiner credit cards justify their fees (₹4,999-₹10,000) if you dine at partner restaurants 3-4 times monthly and actively use the platform for reservations. The 25-50% instant discounts and complimentary Prime membership (worth ₹3,999-₹7,999) provide immediate value. However, they’re only worthwhile for metro residents who explore diverse restaurants regularly rather than frequenting the same local spots.
Q: What’s the best low-fee credit card for dining out that still offers good rewards?
A: The Kotak Delight Platinum Credit Card offers the best value for budget-conscious diners with its minimal ₹750 annual fee and straightforward 4% value back on dining. For those willing to spend slightly more, the HDFC Regalia Gold (₹2,500 fee) provides better overall benefits with 4X rewards and access to the SmartBuy platform’s 10X rewards on dining vouchers.
Q: Do I need excellent credit score to get the best dining credit cards?
A: Premium cards like HDFC Diners Club Black, American Express Platinum Travel, and EazyDiner Premium variants typically require credit scores of 750+ and substantial income proof. However, accessible options like HDFC Swiggy Credit Card, Kotak Delight Platinum, and SBI Prime accept scores in the 650-720 range, making good dining rewards available across credit profiles.
Q: HDFC Diners Club Black vs American Express Platinum Travel: Which is better for dining?
A: HDFC Diners Club Black wins for India-focused dining with higher reward rates (10X vs 5X), extensive 1+1 offers at local restaurants, and better acceptance domestically. American Express Platinum Travel excels for international diners and luxury hotel restaurants with exclusive Amex dining offers and zero forex markup. Choose Diners Club for primarily domestic dining, Amex for global dining experiences.
Q: Can I use multiple dining credit cards strategically for maximum benefits?
A: Yes, strategic card stacking maximizes rewards. Use HDFC Swiggy for food delivery (10% cashback), HDFC Diners Club Black for upscale dine-in with 1+1 offers, and EazyDiner IndusInd at partner restaurants (25-50% discount). This approach requires tracking but can deliver 15-20% overall savings on dining expenses. Ensure you meet minimum spending for fee waivers on each card.
Q: What features should I prioritize when choosing a credit card for dining?
A: Prioritize these factors in order: (1) Reward rate or cashback percentage on dining, (2) Annual fee versus benefits value, (3) Card acceptance at your favorite restaurants, (4) Redemption ease and flexibility, (5) Additional perks like 1+1 offers or dining partnerships. For food delivery users, app-specific cashback rates matter most. For dine-in enthusiasts, instant discounts through platforms like EazyDiner or 1+1 programs provide immediate tangible value.
Related Articles from ThriftRupee:
- Best Credit Cards in India 2025: Complete Guide
- How to Maximize Credit Card Rewards: Expert Strategies
- Credit Card Fee Waivers: Complete Guide to Avoiding Annual Charges
- Food Delivery Apps Comparison: Swiggy vs Zomato vs Others
- Building Credit Score in India: Beginner’s Guide
Last Updated: January 2026 | Disclaimer: Credit card terms, fees, and benefits are subject to change. Always verify current offers directly with card issuers before applying. Annual fees, reward rates, and promotional offers mentioned are accurate as of publication date but may vary.
