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 our eight most-recommended credit cards for restaurant owners:
- American Express Blue Business Cash™: Overall best business credit card with fixed-rate rewards and flexible credit limit
- Chase Ink Business Premier℠: Best for earning premium rewards for large purchases
- Amazon Business Prime American Express Card: Best for restaurant owners who frequently shop at Whole Foods Market and Amazon stores
- Chase Ink Business Preferred®: Best for lucrative welcome offer and premium rewards on advertising
- Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards: Best for earning cash back in the category of your choice
- Ramp Credit Card: 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
- Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best for those with fair credit standing who want fixed-rate rewards
Overview of the Best Business Credit Cards for Restaurant Owners
American Express Blue Business Cash™: Overall Best Business Credit Card 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% introductory annual percentage rate (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% introductory annual percentage rate (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.
Who Should Consider the American Express Blue Business Cash™
Business owners would want to choose our overall best business credit card for restaurant owners as you can earn fixed-rate cash back rewards on all eligible business purchases. It also offers expanded buying power, which lets you spend beyond your credit limit after meeting certain conditions. It also has a 0% introductory period on purchases and charges $0 annual fees. It’s no surprise that this card also leads our roundups of the top cash back business credit cards and leading small business credit cards.
Rewards:
- 2% cash back on the first $50,000 in annual purchases, then 1% cash back after the cap is met
Other benefits:
- Secure $250 statement credit after spending $3,000 in purchases within the first three months from the date of account opening
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Redeem earned cash back as a statement credit, which will appear within your second billing statement automatically
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on balance transfers.
- Its 2% cash back is capped at the first $50,000 in purchases.
Chase Ink Business PremierSM: Best for Earning Premium Rewards for Large Purchases
Ink Business Premier℠ Credit Card
BEST FOR:
Those who make large purchases frequently
- 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
- 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 United States 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
- 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 United States 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.
Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Business PremierSM
If you make large single-transaction purchases frequently and want to earn premium rewards, then this card is an excellent option. While it is a pay-in-full card, eligible purchases can be paid over time through Flex for Business. You can also earn up to 5% cash back on selected spending categories and receive insurance coverage such as extended warranty protection. For this reason, the card is one of our top credit cards for self-employed.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 5% cash back on Lyft rides (until March 2025)
- 2.5% cash back on $5,000 or more in single purchases
- 2% cash back on all other purchases
Other benefits:
- Earn $1,000 cash back bonus after spending $10,000 within the first three months from the date of account opening
- Redeem earned cash back as a statement credit to your balance, gift cards, through Chase TravelSM, and Apple® Ultimate Rewards Store
- Receive coverage for new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not have a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers.
- It charges an annual fee.
- It carries $0 foreign transaction fees.
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
- $0 annual and foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No 0% introductory annual percentage rate (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
- $0 annual and foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No 0% introductory annual percentage rate (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.
Who Should Consider the Amazon Business Prime American Express Card
Those who shop at Whole Foods Market and Amazon stores frequently and have an active Prime membership would want this card. You can choose between earning cash back or getting 90-day terms, depending on your business needs. This card carries $0 foreign transaction fees and connects all of your transactions through QuickBooks®. These are why it is one of our leading sole proprietorship business cards.
Rewards:
- Choose a 90-day term or 5% cash back rewards; if you choose to earn cash back rewards, you can earn 5% cash back on the first $120,000 in purchases each calendar year
- 2% cash back on United States purchases at restaurants, gas stations, and wireless phone services
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
Other benefits:
- Get a $125 Amazon.com gift card upon card approval
- Use rewards on your checkout purchases on Amazon.com and Amazon Business; rewards don’t expire
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
Take note of the following considerations:
- Its 0% introductory period is the shortest among the cards listed here.
- It requires Amazon Prime membership, which is $139 per year.
Chase Ink Business Preferred®: Best for Lucrative Welcome Offer and Premium Rewards on Advertising
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 welcome offer
- 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 welcome offer
- 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
Who Should Consider the Chase Ink Business Preferred®
Securing a high welcome offer with a low spending requirement may be something you want in a card, making this one a great option. It also lets you earn premium points rewards on advertising on search engines and social media sites, making it viable for those with significant expenses on marketing their restaurants. Its high welcome offer and points rewards are why it is one of our best credit cards for new businesses with no credit history.
Rewards:
- 5x points on Lyft rides (until March 2025)
- 3x points per dollar spent on the first $150,000 combined purchases in the following categories:
- Shipping purchases
- Advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines
- Internet, cable, and phone services
- Travel
- 1x points on all other purchases
Other benefits:
- Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in purchases within the first three months from the date of account opening
- Redeem earned cash back as a statement credit to your balance or as gift cards
- Use earned cash back to offset purchases made in Chase TravelSM (1:1 point transfer) and Apple® Ultimate Rewards Store
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers.
- It charges an annual fee.
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% cash back on purchases in the category of your choice and 2% cash back on dining purchases 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 Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors 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 as long as your account remains open.
- 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
- Welcome offer
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% cash back on purchases in the category of your choice and 2% cash back on dining purchases 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 Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors 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 as long as your account remains open.
- 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
- Welcome offer
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.
Who Should Consider the Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards
Choosing to earn premium cash back rewards on your chosen spending category can be an enticing feature for a card, making this option a great choice if that’s important to you. The card offers a 0% introductory period on purchases and carries a $0 annual fee. These are why this card is in our roundups of the leading business cards for startups and top business cards that don’t report to personal credit.
Rewards:
- 3% cash back in the category of your choice and 2% on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year
- 1% cash back after the cap is met
Other benefits:
- Receive $300 online statement credit after spending at least $3,000 in purchases within the first 90 days from the date of account opening
- Earn up to 75% additional cash back through Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards for Business
- Redeem earned cash back as a deposit to your Bank of America checking or savings account, as a card statement credit, or as a check mailed to you
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on balance transfers.
- It charges foreign transaction fees.
Ramp Credit Card: Best for Robust Financial Management Tools & No Personal Guarantee
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on 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 United States 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 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 United States 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.
Who Should Consider the Ramp Credit Card
Despite being a corporate charge card, this card is ideal for restaurant owners who want a robust expense management system and fixed-rate cash back rewards. While it does not offer a 0% introductory period, this card carries $0 additional fees and offers exclusive partner discounts. It’s no surprise that it is one of our leading business cards for bad credit.
Reward:
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
Other benefits:
- Offers exclusive partner discounts—visit Ramp’s perks page for more details
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Receive coverage in case of theft or damage on purchases made with your card
Take note of the following considerations:
- It requires you to pay in full each month.
- Ramp 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 a Long Interest-free Financing Period
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
- $0 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
- $0 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.
Who Should Consider the U.S. Bank Business Triple Cash Rewards World Elite Mastercard®
It is a great option for your business if you prefer having a long 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers. Restaurant owners with significant expenses on gas and office supplies would also greatly benefit from it as you can earn premium cash back rewards on purchases in these categories. This is why it is one of our best business cards for balance transfers and top-recommended limited liability company (LLC) credit cards.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked through 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
- 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases
Other benefits:
- Earn $500 cash back after spending at least $4,500 in eligible purchases within the first 150 days from the date of account opening
- Pay over time by dividing eligible purchases into equal monthly payments with U.S. Bank’s ExtendPay plan
- Track business spending with U.S. Bank’s free online tool
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on cash advances.
- Its premium cash back rewards are limited to selected spending categories.
Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business: Best for Those with Fair Credit Standing Who Want Fixed-rate Rewards
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No welcome offer
- Automatic payments: Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability: If your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records: You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty: Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
- Free employee cards: You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
- 1% cash back every time you swipe
- Build your business credit through responsible usage
- Issue employee cards for free
Pros
- Opportunity to build business credit
- Only requires fair credit to qualify
- Doesn’t charge annual and balance transfer fees
Cons
- Charges high ongoing APR
- Has no 0% introductory APR
- No welcome offer
- Automatic payments: Setting up AutoPay in the Capital One mobile app will save you from having to worry about signing in to your account every month
- $0 fraud liability: If your card is either lost or stolen, you can get an emergency replacement and cash advance.
- Purchase records: You can download all purchase records quickly and securely in multiple formats, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, and Excel®.
- Extended warranty: Get free additional warranty and protection on eligible items purchased with your business credit card.
- Free employee cards: You can create multiple employee cards, track employee spending, and customize spending limits while earning all the rewards from their purchases.
Who Should Consider the Capital One® Spark® Classic for Business
Restaurant owners with fair credit standing should take advantage of this business credit card as it can help you build your credit history while earning fixed-rate cash back rewards. Despite not offering a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers, it charges $0 additional fees. Its fixed-rate cash back rewards and only requiring fair credit standing are why it is our leading business card for fair credit and one of our best instant approval business credit cards.
Rewards:
- 5% cash back on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel
- Unlimited 1% cash back on all purchases
Other benefits:
- Choose your preferred monthly due date
- Issue employee cards at no additional cost
- Enjoy $0 foreign transaction fees
Take note of the following considerations:
- It does not offer a 0% introductory period on purchases and balance transfers.
- It does not have a welcome offer.
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 considered 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 earned 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.