Editor’s note: This is a recurring post with regularly updated card details.
The best business credit cards for restaurant owners reward the usual purchases that restaurant businesses usually spend on, such as supplies, marketing expenses, and utilities. Since a restaurant business typically needs to purchase in bulk, owners can benefit from business cards with high or flexible credit limits. Make sure to choose a card with low costs and other features that are valuable for your business.
Consider these top eight credit cards for restaurant owners:
- American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card: Best overall business credit card for restaurant owners with fixed-rate rewards and flexible credit limit
- Amazon Business Prime American Express Card: Best for restaurant owners who frequently shop at Whole Foods Market and Amazon stores
- Chase Ink Business PremierSM: Best for large single-transaction purchases
- American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for earning premium cash back on the top two categories where you spend the most
- Chase Ink Business Preferred®: Best for high credit limit with lucrative introductory rewards
- Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards: Best for earning cash back in the category of your choice
- Ramp: Best for robust financial management tools and no personal guarantee
- U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for new restaurant owners who need a long interest-free financing period
Best Business Credit Cards for Restaurant Owners At a Glance
American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card: Overall Best Business Credit Card for Restaurant Owners With Fixed-Rate Rewards & Flexible Credit Limit
The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card
BEST FOR:
Those who want better cash back rewards
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- $0 annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power: Enjoy flexible buying power when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and help get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts with your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance: As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
- Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
- 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
- Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
- From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
- Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
- No Annual Fee
- Terms Apply
Pros
- 0% intro APR
- Welcome bonus
- Fixed rate rewards
- $0 annual fee
Cons
- Cash advance isn’t allowed
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- 2% cash back is capped at $50,000 in annual spending
- Expanded buying power: Enjoy flexible buying power when your business needs it. Expanded buying power gives you the freedom to spend beyond your credit limit and help get business done. While the amount you can spend above your credit limit isn't unlimited, it adjusts with your use of the card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
- Car rental loss and damage insurance: As a Card Member, You can be covered for damage to or theft of a rental vehicle in a covered territory when you use your eligible card to reserve and pay for the entire rental and decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.
Why we like it: Restaurant businesses have varied expenses in different categories. If you don’t want to keep track of spending categories, a business credit card with a straightforward reward program is your best bet. American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card is our choice for the overall best business card for restaurant owners for two reasons:
- Fixed-rate cash back: Earn 2% on your first $50,000 purchases per year, regardless of spending categories. When the cap is met, you’ll receive 1% on all purchases.
- Flexible credit limit: It features Expanded Buying Power, which allows you to spend over your credit limit based on your card usage, payment behavior, credit history, and financial resources.
On top of those, you can also benefit from the following:
- 0% introductory APR: Enjoy interest-free financing on purchases for the first 12 months after opening an account
- $0 annual fee
- Expense management tools: These include QuickBooks® integration, Vendor Pay by Bill.com, a mobile app, and year-end summary reports
It is also our best cash back business credit card because of its simplicity and flexibility. Using the card will give you access to a credit limit that adjusts to your needs, as well as instant savings on your expenses.
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card: Best for Restaurant Owners Who Frequently Shop at Whole Foods Market & Amazon Stores
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
BEST FOR:
5% back or 90-day repayment terms
- Eligible Prime Members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.
- Take advantage of 5% Back or 90 Day Terms on U.S. purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Business, AWS and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership. You will earn 5% Back on the first $120,000 in purchases each calendar year, 1% Back thereafter
- 2% Back at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers
- 1% Back on other purchases
- $0 Annual Fee
- Back your business with the broad selection of Amazon and the service of American Express. Stay focused on your top business priorities, knowing we’re behind you.
- With rewards that don’t expire, you choose when to redeem. Redeem rewards on millions of items during checkout at Amazon.com and Amazon Business (U.S.) or apply towards a purchase on your statement.
- Terms apply.
Pros
- 5% back or 90-day terms
- No annual and foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR
- Only for Amazon Prime members
- Return protection: American Express will provide a refund for an item purchased within 90 days that cannot be returned to the merchant. Refunds are limited to $300 per item, up to $1,000 per cardmember, per calendar year.
- Baggage insurance: Get reimbursed for lost, damaged, or stolen luggage is damaged, lost, or stolen when you pay for your trip with your card, American Express will pay up to $1,250 per covered person for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage.
- Car rental insurance: Get coverage for theft or damage of a car rental, up to $50,000. Cardholders can waive the collision insurance offered by the auto rental agency.
- Eligible Prime Members get a $125 Amazon Gift Card upon approval for the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card.
- Take advantage of 5% Back or 90 Day Terms on U.S. purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Business, AWS and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership. You will earn 5% Back on the first $120,000 in purchases each calendar year, 1% Back thereafter
- 2% Back at U.S. restaurants, U.S. gas stations, and on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers
- 1% Back on other purchases
- $0 Annual Fee
- Back your business with the broad selection of Amazon and the service of American Express. Stay focused on your top business priorities, knowing we’re behind you.
- With rewards that don’t expire, you choose when to redeem. Redeem rewards on millions of items during checkout at Amazon.com and Amazon Business (U.S.) or apply towards a purchase on your statement.
- Terms apply.
Pros
- 5% back or 90-day terms
- No annual and foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No 0% introductory APR
- Only for Amazon Prime members
- Return protection: American Express will provide a refund for an item purchased within 90 days that cannot be returned to the merchant. Refunds are limited to $300 per item, up to $1,000 per cardmember, per calendar year.
- Baggage insurance: Get reimbursed for lost, damaged, or stolen luggage is damaged, lost, or stolen when you pay for your trip with your card, American Express will pay up to $1,250 per covered person for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage.
- Car rental insurance: Get coverage for theft or damage of a car rental, up to $50,000. Cardholders can waive the collision insurance offered by the auto rental agency.
Why we like it: Food supplies are one of the most common expenses of restaurant businesses. If your restaurant serves natural and organic meals, Whole Foods Market is a great place to buy your supplies. We chose Amazon Business Prime American Express Card as one of the top credit cards for restaurant owners because you can choose to earn 5% cash back on your first $120,000 purchases per year at Whole Foods Market, Amazon Business, AWS, and Amazon.com. You also have the option to pay your purchases from these stores within 90 days without interest instead.
Here are the benefits of the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card:
- Unlimited cash back: Earn 2% cash back at United States restaurants, gas stations, and wireless telephone service providers and 1% cash back on all other purchases
- $0 annual fee: Just pay for an Amazon Prime membership of $139 per year to qualify
- Welcome offer: Receive $125 Amazon.com gift card automatically upon approval without spending requirements
Amazon Business Prime American Express Card is our top business credit card for Amazon purchases because of its premium rewards and other perks. Keep in mind, however, that you cannot use this card for balance transfers.
Chase Ink Business PremierSM: Best for Large Single-transaction Purchases
Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Those who frequently make large purchases
- Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Earn unlimited 2.5% total cash back on purchases of $5,000 or more and unlimited 2% cash back on all other business purchases.
- Travel Benefits: Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance.
- The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more.
- For businesses who prefer to pay their balance in full each month, Ink Business Premier gives access to increased spending power, rich rewards, and premium benefits.
- Pay off eligible purchases over time with interest up to assigned Flex for Business limit. All other purchases must be paid in full each month.
- Purchase with confidence with built-in protections like Fraud Protection, Zero Liability Protection, Purchase Protection, Cell Phone Protection, and Extended Warranty Protection.
- There's no additional cost for employee cards. Monitor spend with digital tools like purchase alerts, set spending limits, reporting, and more.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Offers premium rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge foreign transaction fees
- Has the option to pay for qualifying purchases in installments through Flex for Business
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- Charges a high annual fee of $195
- Requires for you to pay in full each month
- Need to make large purchases within a short period of time to qualify for its sign up bonus
- Cellphone protection: You and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill can get up to $1,000 per claim against covered theft or damage
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the US manufacturer’s warranty period by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance: If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather, and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, which includes passenger fares, tours, and hotels.
- Flex for Business: Allows a portion of your Credit Access Line to be used for qualifying purchases over time with interest.
- Free employee cards: You can request employee cards at no additional cost and set individual spending limits—helping you earn rewards faster.
- Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Earn unlimited 2.5% total cash back on purchases of $5,000 or more and unlimited 2% cash back on all other business purchases.
- Travel Benefits: Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance.
- The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more.
- For businesses who prefer to pay their balance in full each month, Ink Business Premier gives access to increased spending power, rich rewards, and premium benefits.
- Pay off eligible purchases over time with interest up to assigned Flex for Business limit. All other purchases must be paid in full each month.
- Purchase with confidence with built-in protections like Fraud Protection, Zero Liability Protection, Purchase Protection, Cell Phone Protection, and Extended Warranty Protection.
- There's no additional cost for employee cards. Monitor spend with digital tools like purchase alerts, set spending limits, reporting, and more.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Offers premium rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge foreign transaction fees
- Has the option to pay for qualifying purchases in installments through Flex for Business
Cons
- Does not have interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- Charges a high annual fee of $195
- Requires for you to pay in full each month
- Need to make large purchases within a short period of time to qualify for its sign up bonus
- Cellphone protection: You and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill can get up to $1,000 per claim against covered theft or damage
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the US manufacturer’s warranty period by an additional year on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Trip cancellation/trip interruption insurance: If your trip is canceled or cut short by sickness, severe weather, and other covered situations, you can be reimbursed up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, which includes passenger fares, tours, and hotels.
- Flex for Business: Allows a portion of your Credit Access Line to be used for qualifying purchases over time with interest.
- Free employee cards: You can request employee cards at no additional cost and set individual spending limits—helping you earn rewards faster.
Why we like it: Many restaurant businesses need to buy their supplies in bulk, especially when preparing for events and high-peak season. If you often shop in large quantities and usually spend at least $5,000 for single-transaction purchases, you will benefit from the Chase Ink Business PremierSM credit card. With it, you’ll receive 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more—that’s $125 back for every $5,000 worth of single-receipt purchase when redeemed.
Besides that, you’ll also benefit from these perks:
- Unlimited rewards: Earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 2025 and 2% cash back on all other purchases—plus, rewards don’t expire
- Bonus cash back: Receive $1,000 cash back when you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first three months of opening an account
- Flexible redemption options: Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel, and merchandise through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- No foreign transaction fee
- Flexible payment options:
- Pay-in-full: Choose to pay your balance in full each month and access a higher spending power and other premium benefits
- Flex for Business: Carry a balance and pay off eligible purchases over time with interest up to your Flex for Business limit
It is also named as one of our top business credit cards for self-employed because of its high cash back rates, payment flexibility, and other benefits. It’s essential to note that it does not come with a 0% introductory APR, and balance transfers are not allowed.
American Express® Business Gold Card: Best for Earning Premium Cash Back on the Top Two Categories Where You Spend the Most
American Express® Business Gold Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing rewards in the two categories where you spend the most
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
- Get $12.95 back in statement credits each month when you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. $12.95 plus applicable taxes.
- Your Card – Your Choice. Now choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump-starts, flat tire changes, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
- Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
- Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
- Get $12.95 back in statement credits each month when you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. $12.95 plus applicable taxes.
- Your Card – Your Choice. Now choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
- *Terms Apply
Pros
- Earn 4x points in two categories every month
- Pay eligible charges over time with interest, or pay your balance in full monthly
Cons
- You’ll pay a high annual fee of $295
- No interest-free financing opportunities
- Premium roadside assistance: Free of charge up to four times a year. You can receive towing up to 10 miles, winching, jump-starts, flat tire changes, lockout service when the key is in the vehicle, and delivery of up to two gallons of gas
- Return protection: American Express will refund you for eligible purchases when the store doesn’t accept returns of undamaged items. Coverage is limited to 90 days from purchase, up to $300 per item, and up to a maximum of $1,000 per year.
- Baggage insurance: If your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen, you’re eligible for coverage of up to $1,250 for carry-on luggage and $500 for checked bags
- Extended warranty: Receive one additional year of coverage on purchases with eligible warranties of five years or less
- Purchase protection: Covers new purchases against damage or theft within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per incident.
Why we like it: If you have expenses in various categories each month and you want to earn maximum rewards where you spend the most, the American Express® Business Gold Card is suitable for you. It allows you to earn 4x points on the top two categories where you spend the most each billing cycle on the first $150,000 purchases per calendar year. These categories include the following:
- Advertising in select media, such as online, TV, and radio
- Computer hardware, software, and cloud solutions purchased directly from select US technology providers
- Fuel at US gas stations
- Shipping
- Airfare purchased directly from airlines
- Restaurants, including takeout and delivery
What’s more, you also get to enjoy the following:
- Unlimited rewards: Earn 1x point on all other purchases and when the cap is met on your top 2 expense categories
- Welcome offer: Receive 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 in the first three months of card ownership
- No foreign transaction fee
With its high spending requirement to receive the welcome offer, you can possibly get a high credit limit for this card—this is the reason why it made our roundup of the best high-limit business cards. Note that balance transfers and cash advances are not allowed.
Chase Ink Business Preferred®: Best for High Credit Limit With Lucrative Introductory Rewards
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Maximizing travel rewards at a lower annual fee
- Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
- Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Reward points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® card
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protection
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- With annual fee
- Need to make extremely large purchases to qualify for the sign-up bonus
- Cellphone protection: Get up to $1,000 per claim in cellphone protection against covered theft or damage for you and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill
- Purchase protection: Can cover your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft of up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the period of the United States manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Fraud monitoring: Chase will help keep your accounts safe with account alerts―and you can choose how you’d like to receive them
- Free employee cards: You can create employee cards at no additional cost, and lets you set individual spending limits―helping you earn rewards even faster
- Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
- With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
- Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
- Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
- Member FDIC
Pros
- Reward points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® card
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protection
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No interest-free financing option on both purchases and balance transfers
- With annual fee
- Need to make extremely large purchases to qualify for the sign-up bonus
- Cellphone protection: Get up to $1,000 per claim in cellphone protection against covered theft or damage for you and your employees listed on your monthly cellphone bill
- Purchase protection: Can cover your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft of up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account
- Extended warranty protection: You can extend the period of the United States manufacturer’s warranty by an additional year, on eligible warranties of three years or less.
- Fraud monitoring: Chase will help keep your accounts safe with account alerts―and you can choose how you’d like to receive them
- Free employee cards: You can create employee cards at no additional cost, and lets you set individual spending limits―helping you earn rewards even faster
Why we like it: As a restaurant owner, access to a high credit limit is a valuable feature to look for in a business credit card. This is because restaurant owners need to spend on large expenses, especially if you are just starting out. That’s what makes the Chase Ink Business Preferred® a great option—and for a low annual fee of $95, it gives you 100,000 bonus points when you spend $8,000 within the first three months after opening an account. Plus, its high premium rewards cap per year means there’s a good chance that you can access a substantial credit limit.
With Chase Ink Business Preferred® credit card, you can enjoy these advantages:
- Generous rewards that don’t expire: Earn 3x points per dollar you spend on online advertising, internet, cable, phone services, travel, and shipping; 5x points per dollar on Lyft rides through March 2025; and 1x point per dollar on everything else
- Flexible redemption options: Redeem your points for cash back, gift cards, merchandise, or travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- More points value: When redeemed for travel, points are worth 25% more
- No foreign transaction fee
This card is also a great option for restaurant owners who travel frequently. It is our top-recommended business credit card for travel and our leading credit card with high credit limits. Keep in mind that it lacks a 0% introductory APR on both balance transfers and purchases.
Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards: Best for Earning Cash Back in the Category of Your Choice
Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card
BEST FOR:
Those who want to earn 3% cash back in a spending category of their choice
9 billing cycles
- Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services, 2% cash back on dining purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- You'll earn 3% and 2% cash back on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
- You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for our highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back in your selected choice category and up to 3.5% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in those combined purchases each calendar year, and up to an unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases.
- No annual fee
- Choose how to redeem your cash rewards-as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire.
- To change your choice category for future purchases, you must go to the Mobile Banking app or Business Advantage 360, our small business online banking. You can change it once each calendar month, or make no change and it stays the same.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- Offers flexible redemption options
- Doesn’t charge annual fees
- With sign-up bonus
Cons
- Premium cash back rewards are capped on a selected spending category
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Short introductory APR period
- Access to a business credit score: Bank of America lets you view and monitor your Dun & Bradstreet business credit score for free through Business Advantage 360.
- Zero liability protection: Stay protected against unauthorized transactions. Bank of America offers additional protections that cover certain purchases against loss, damage, theft, or fire and provides extended warranty coverage.
- Fraud monitoring: Bank of America will block potential fraud if it detects abnormal patterns in your transactions. It’ll also notify you if it suspects any fraudulent activity.
9 billing cycles
- Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
- Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services, 2% cash back on dining purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- You'll earn 3% and 2% cash back on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
- You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for our highest Preferred Rewards for Business tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back in your selected choice category and up to 3.5% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in those combined purchases each calendar year, and up to an unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases.
- No annual fee
- Choose how to redeem your cash rewards-as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire.
- To change your choice category for future purchases, you must go to the Mobile Banking app or Business Advantage 360, our small business online banking. You can change it once each calendar month, or make no change and it stays the same.
- 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Pros
- Offers flexible redemption options
- Doesn’t charge annual fees
- With sign-up bonus
Cons
- Premium cash back rewards are capped on a selected spending category
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- Short introductory APR period
- Access to a business credit score: Bank of America lets you view and monitor your Dun & Bradstreet business credit score for free through Business Advantage 360.
- Zero liability protection: Stay protected against unauthorized transactions. Bank of America offers additional protections that cover certain purchases against loss, damage, theft, or fire and provides extended warranty coverage.
- Fraud monitoring: Bank of America will block potential fraud if it detects abnormal patterns in your transactions. It’ll also notify you if it suspects any fraudulent activity.
Why we like it: The Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards is an excellent option for restaurant owners who want to choose the expense category where they earn premium cash back. It offers 3% cash back on any of the following: gas and EV charging stations, office supplies, travel, TV/telecom and wireless, computer services, or business consulting services. Plus, it is an ideal choice if you have an existing Bank of America deposit account. You can earn 75% more rewards if you qualify for the Preferred Rewards for Business program.
Here are the other benefits that come with the card:
- Unlimited cash back: On top of the 3% cash back you will earn on your chosen category, you’ll also get 2% cash back on dining and 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Welcome offer: Receive a $300 statement credit as sign-up bonus when you spend $3,000 in the first 90 days of card ownership
- Cash redemption options: Choose to redeem rewards as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit, or as a check mailed to you
- No annual fee
It’s worth noting that you can only earn 3% cash back on your chosen category and 2% cash back on dining on the first $50,000 in combined purchases per year, then you’ll receive 1% after the cap is met. This card is one of our top small business credit cards because of its unique rewards structure.
Ramp: Best for Robust Financial Management Tools & No Personal Guarantee
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, regardless of spending categories
Pros
- Offers rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge additional fees
- Offers direct integrations to notable accounting tasks
Cons
- Requires paying balances in full each month
- Ramp is not available to sole proprietors and unincorporated businesses
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Call the Benefit Administrator at (800) 397-9010 if you are in the US or (303) 967-1093 if you are outside of the US if you need emergency assistance.
- Purchase security: Receive a maximum of $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder in cases of theft or damage to purchases made with your card.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: When using this card for renting a car, you can be reimbursed for damages caused by theft or collision up to the Actual Cash Value of most rented cars. Note that rental periods of 31 consecutive days are covered.
- Extended warranty protection: Extend warranties for eligible purchases made with your covered account and/or rewards programs associated with your account.
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, regardless of spending categories
Pros
- Offers rewards for new and existing cardholders
- Does not charge additional fees
- Offers direct integrations to notable accounting tasks
Cons
- Requires paying balances in full each month
- Ramp is not available to sole proprietors and unincorporated businesses
- Travel and emergency assistance services: Call the Benefit Administrator at (800) 397-9010 if you are in the US or (303) 967-1093 if you are outside of the US if you need emergency assistance.
- Purchase security: Receive a maximum of $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder in cases of theft or damage to purchases made with your card.
- Auto rental collision damage waiver: When using this card for renting a car, you can be reimbursed for damages caused by theft or collision up to the Actual Cash Value of most rented cars. Note that rental periods of 31 consecutive days are covered.
- Extended warranty protection: Extend warranties for eligible purchases made with your covered account and/or rewards programs associated with your account.
Why we like it: If your restaurant business is growing and you need robust expense management tools, Ramp card is a great choice. It provides unlimited virtual and physical cards for your employees and team members, fast and efficient bill payments with unlimited AI invoice transcripts, and direct integrations to accounting software like QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, and Sage Insight. What’s more, it does not require a personal guarantee, which means you won’t be held personally liable for your company’s debts.
Other benefits of Ramp card include:
- Unlimited cash back: Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, regardless of spending category
- No annual and maintenance fees
- No foreign transaction fee
- No personal credit checks
Ramp is one of our top business credit cards with no personal credit check, best purchasing cards, and leading corporate cards. Keep in mind that Ramp is a charge card, so you need to pay your balance in full each month. Also, it is unavailable to sole proprietors and unincorporated businesses.
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®: Best for New Restaurant Owners Who Need Long Interest-free Financing
U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
BEST FOR:
0% APR for 15 billing cycles
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cell phone service providers and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire.
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses such as FreshBooks or quickbooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 19.24% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
- Introducing the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® the card that gives back on all your eligible business needs.
- Earn $500 in cash back. Just spend $4500 on the Account Owner's card in the first 150 days of opening your account.
- Earn 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations, office supply stores, cell phone service providers and restaurants.
- 1% cash back on all other eligible net purchases.
- Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Rewards Center.
- No limit on total cash back earned.
- Rewards never expire.
- Earn an annual $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses such as FreshBooks or quickbooks
- 0% Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles. After that, a variable APR currently 19.24% - 28.24%.
- No annual fee.
- Great Offer from U.S. Bank, a 2022 World's Most Ethical Company® - Ethisphere Institute, February 2022
- Terms and conditions apply
- Pay over time by splitting eligible purchases of $100+ into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank ExtendPay™ Plan.
Pros
- 0% APR applies to both purchases and balance transfers
- Unlimited cash back rewards
- No annual fee
Cons
- Balance transfer fee is charged even during the introductory period
- Intro APR doesn’t apply to cash advances
- MasterRental car rental collision damage waiver: When you rent a car using your U.S. Bank credit card, you’re covered in case of accident or theft on all rentals made worldwide. Coverage is primary, which means you won’t need to use your personal auto insurance or accept the insurance offered by the rental agency. Coverage is capped at $50,000.
- Purchase assurance: U.S. Bank may repair or reimburse for items purchased with your U.S. Bank business credit card that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Coverage is limited to $1,000 per loss, up to $25,000 per year, per account. Lost items and items left out of reach that others can see are not covered.
- Extended warranty protection: U.S. Bank will double the manufacturer’s warranty up to an additional one year from the expiration of warranties of five years or less. An item with a six-month warranty would be backed for an additional six months, for example. The issuer will replace the item or reimburse you up to the amount charged on your U.S. Bank card up to $10,000.
Why we like it: If you’re just starting out as a restaurant owner, you may need to make large purchases for your initial supplies and capital expenditures. To save on cost, it’s best to consider a business credit card that offers a 0% APR period. The U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard® is a perfect choice—it offers interest-free financing for 15 billing cycles on both purchases and balance transfers, allowing you to pay off your balance for more than a year without interest.
Aside from the long 0% APR period, you also get to take advantage of the following:
- Unlimited cash back: Earn 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals directly booked in the Travel Rewards Center, 3% cash back on eligible purchases at gas and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, office supply stores, cellphone service providers, and restaurants, and 1% cash back on all other purchases
- Sign-up bonus: Get $500 cash back after spending at least $4,500 in eligible purchases within the first 150 days from account opening
- Annual software subscription: Receive $100 statement credit for recurring software subscription expenses, such as FreshBooks or QuickBooks
- No annual fee
It is our #1 choice for the best business credit cards with no annual fee and one of our top-recommended 0% APR credit cards because of its generous rewards and long 0% introductory APR.
How We Selected the Best Business Credit Cards for Restaurant Owners
When selecting the best credit cards for restaurant owners, we first consider the introductory and ongoing rewards. We also took into account the annual fees, other fees, introductory and ongoing APRs, and additional features that restaurant owners may find valuable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When looking for the best business credit cards for restaurant owners, you must consider the following factors:
- Rewards you can earn from your regular expenses: Typically, the majority of your business expenses as a restaurant owner will come from food suppliers and wholesalers. Finding a credit card that rewards these expenses will help you maximize your earnings.
- Costs: Consider cards that can help you save on overall credit costs, so check the card’s annual fees and APRs.
- Additional features: Make sure to check the available expense management tools that come with the card to help make your financial reporting easier.
- Credit limit: Most restaurant businesses have significant expenses each month so you need access to a substantial credit limit to use as your working capital.
A business credit card helps you separate your business and personal expenses, which is crucial if you want to keep your business finances smooth and organized. As a restaurant owner, you also need access to a credit line to help fund your business’s regular working capital needs. On top of that, using business credit cards can also help build business credit, which will eventually allow you to access a wide range of business financing options.
To make the most out of your business credit card, ensure to maximize its rewards-earning potential and redeem your rewards for your business’s needs. If the card offers a sign-up bonus, try to earn it by meeting the spending requirements on necessary purchases. Moreover, take advantage of introductory 0% APR offers to help alleviate your financial obligations by paying off your bill in installments without interest, and make use of the free financial reporting tools that come with your business credit cards to keep your transactions smooth and regularly monitored.
Bottom Line
The best credit cards for restaurant owners should align with your spending habits and funding needs. Make sure to choose a card that provides premium rewards on your regular expenses—but if you have varied expenses each month, a fixed-rate rewards card may be right for you. Additionally, choose a card that lets you save on costs and provides features that are most valuable for your business.