It’s no secret that Chicago can be a pricey place to live and play. Amazing events every weekend, delicious new restaurants popping up, and even just Ubering back and forth to everything can add up fast!
What if I told you that it IS possible to experience all of Chicago’s fantastic cuisine AND get rewarded for doing so?! I know…mind blown, right?
Check out my must-have rewards programs for dining out in the Windy City!
Lettuce Entertain You
Probably one of the most recognizable rewards programs, Lettuce Entertain You Frequent Diner Club is a must when dining out. With dozens of restaurants to choose from, this program gives you $10 back on every 140 points you earn – plus, their Summer of Savings Scratch-Off promo lets you earn 2-5x the rewards when you activate the digital scratcher!
Four Corners
Earn points at any Four Corners restaurant and see your dollars add up! Dine out at any of their Chicago staples including Brickhouse Tavern, Fremont, Motel Bar, and Highlines and see your points add up! Besides a sign up bonus, you’ll receive $5 for every 100 points accumulated, plus promotions exclusively for rewards members.
Levy Restaurants
Levy Restaurant‘s rewards program gives you a LOT back. Receive $25 for every 250 points accumulated at Jake Melnick’s, Spiaggia, River Roast, and Cafe Spiaggia – then redeem them just the same! You can also earn prizes on their tiered point system, including wine, stemware, private parties, and even a Disney vacation!
Big Onion
Big Onion Restaurant Group‘s venues are prime for watching a game, hanging out with friends, and grabbing some grub, so it’s a no-brainer to have this program at the ready! Get $5 for every 100 points you accumulate at Fatpour, Woodie’s, Hopsmith, Derby and more, plus birthday bonuses and other discounts throughout the year.
4 Star Rewards
4 Star Rewards, the restaurant group behind DOC Wine Bar, Crosby’s Kitchen, Frasca, Ella Elli, and more gives you $10 for every 140 points earned, PLUS opportunities to win prizes when you hit different levels. Who wouldn’t want priority reservations, bonuses in addition to your earnings?
OpenTable
While not exactly a restaurant rewards program, booking your reservations on OpenTable pays off, too! Get 100 points (or 1000 for certain bookings!) for every reservation you book and cash them in for a gift certificate to your next dining experience.