If you’re not stacking rewards when dining out, you’re leaving money on the table—literally. Many restaurants offer loyalty programs, limited-time promos, and email offers, but the real savings start when you combine those with cashback apps and gift card strategies. This approach, often called “stacking,” lets you layer multiple forms of rewards into a single transaction, turning a typical meal into a high-value experience.

Here’s how to make the most of every dining dollar by stacking restaurant rewards, cashback apps, and digital gift cards.

Step 1: Join the restaurant’s loyalty program

Start with the basics. Popular chains offer free loyalty programs that reward you for purchases. Some of the most rewarding ones include:

• MyPanera – Get surprise rewards, birthday treats, and member-only discounts.

• CAVA Rewards – Earn points toward free meals and get insider access to promotions.

• Starbucks Rewards – Redeem Stars for free drinks and food items.

• Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin’ Rewards – Rack up points for dine-in or online orders.

Sign up is free and often comes with a welcome offer—like a free drink, appetizer, or discount on your first order.

Step 2: Add a cashback layer with receipt or purchase-based apps

Once you’ve joined a loyalty program, the next step is to add a cashback component. Platforms like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cashback for restaurant-related gift cards or purchases. Simply scan your receipt or link your purchase through the app to earn money back.

You can also use apps like Fluz, which lets you buy digital gift cards at the moment of payment. When you purchase a gift card for your meal total, you receive cashback instantly—and still get all your loyalty points at the restaurant.

Example stack:

Let’s say you’re ordering lunch at Panera:

1. Log in to your MyPanera account.

2. Place your order as usual.

3. Just before paying, buy a Panera Bread gift card online through Fluz for the exact amount.

4. Use the gift card to pay.

5. Earn MyPanera points + Fluz cashback + any app-based receipt rewards.

One transaction, three layers of value.

Step 3: Watch for limited-time promos and coupon stacking

Some restaurants and apps offer special promotions that increase your earnings. For example, Fluz runs periodic boosted cashback events, and restaurant reward programs often include double points days or bonus offers for referring friends.

You can also use online coupon codes with delivery or takeout orders at places like:

• Domino’s

• Papa Johns

• Taco Bell

Stack these offers with a loyalty program and a Domino’s gift card cashback deal to maximize your savings.

Bonus: Dining apps that do the work for you

If you’re overwhelmed by juggling multiple apps, some platforms simplify the process. For example, Ibotta allows you to link loyalty accounts directly, and Fluz automatically tracks your cashback once you pay with a gift card.

Some credit card apps (like Amex Offers or Chase Offers) also allow you to activate restaurant cashback promotions that can be combined with everything else.

Key takeaways

• Always join a restaurant’s free rewards program.

• Use cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta to layer in savings.

• Look for coupon codes or in-app promos before paying.

• Pay with a digital gift card bought in real time to earn cashback instantly.

If you’re already spending the money, you might as well earn something back. Stack smart and turn every order into a reward-earning opportunity.