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American Express Dining Collection Program and Pay With Points - An Overview for AMEX Cardholders

​Our review explains how AMEX cardholders can maximise benefits like restaurant discounts and a 50% bonus on Membership Reward Points redemptions. We look at the program's mechanics, pros and cons, and frequently asked questions for Gold Rewards cardholders, offering insights on statement credits and point value in dining experiences.
Updated 3 August 2024

Introduction
  • American Express offers two credit cards which offer restaurant discounts and let you redeem Membership Reward Points for statement credit with a 50% bonus. 
  • The mechanics of both features can be complicated; our review has been published to explain what you need to know. 
  • As a background, the American Express Dining Collection comprises over 80 restaurants across New Zealand, focusing on Auckland, Wellington, Central Otago, and Queenstown. You can see the list here.
  • The Dining Collection is relevant for Gold Rewards Cardholders who are entitled to a respective $100 and $150 credit applied to their statement when they charge $100+ or $150+ in a single transaction at a participating restaurant in the Dining Collection. This benefit can be used twice a year.
  • Cardholders can also redeem Membership Rewards Points and enjoy a 50% bonus. For example, 1,000 AMEX points typically equal $5 when applied, but if you're redeeming points to reduce Dining Collection charges, the 50% bonus means 1,000 points will be worth $7.50. ​

To help explain what you need to know, our review covers:
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Know This First: How much do I need to spend to earn 1,000 points? And is using points for Dining Program transactions good value?

  • ​Gold Rewards Cardholders earn 2 AMEX points per $1 spent, meaning each $7.50 discount on Dining Collection charges is generated by spending $500 on the card. This represents a 1.50% award rebate.
  • Our research into the best way to spend AMEX points suggests 1.50% is on the lower end, with luxury hotels and business class flights offering cardholders 4% to 10%+. However, 1.50% is above the range of other awards, as outlined in our AMEX point valuation.​

Pros and Cons of the Dining Collection Program

Pros:
  1. Enhanced Point Value: With a 50% bonus on point redemption at Dining Collection restaurants, your points have increased purchasing power, offering more value than standard redemption.
  2. Statement Credits for Dining: The program offers tangible benefits, like statement credits of $100 for Gold cards twice a year, directly reducing your dining expenses.
  3. Compatible with First Table: Some of the restaurants in the Dining Collection also offer First Table 50% discounts, meaning you can double-dip with a $100 or $150 statement credit and get 50% off the food costs upfront.
​
Cons:
  1. Limited Flexibility: The benefits are restricted to dining experiences within the Dining Collection, limiting the versatility of your rewards.
  2. Requires Significant Spending: Substantial expenditure on your card is necessary to earn enough points for meaningful rewards.
  3. Comparatively Lower Reward Rate: The rebate percentage of 1.5% on dining may not be as lucrative as other reward options like luxury hotel stays or business class flights.
  4. Limited to Specific Cardholders: Not all AMEX cards are eligible for this program, restricting its accessibility. You can't use the program if, for example, you have an Airpoints Dollars-earning AMEX card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there limitations to the types of meals or restaurants?

The program is exclusive to the restaurants listed in the Dining Collection. There are no specific limitations on the types of meals.

Can points be redeemed for alcoholic beverages within the meal?

Yes, points generate credit for the total dining bill, including alcoholic beverages, provided the transaction was at a participating restaurant.

How does this program compare to other AMEX reward options?

While the Dining Collection offers unique culinary experiences and a 50% bonus on point redemption, it may not offer the same value as redeeming points for travel-related rewards, especially for cardholders who prioritise travel or luxury experiences over dining.

Is this program beneficial for infrequent diners?

It depends; generally, the program is most advantageous for cardholders who dine out frequently. Infrequent diners may find that accumulating points for other rewards, like travel or vouchers, aligns better with their spending habits and lifestyle.

Our Conclusion

  • The American Express Dining Collection Program offers an appealing proposition for food enthusiasts, enhancing dining experiences with a bonus point value and exclusive access to premium restaurants. However, its appeal is contingent on individual dining habits and reward-type preferences. 
  • However, its appeal is highly subjective and dependent on personal lifestyle and reward preferences. AMEX points are more valuable with flights and hotels, including business class awards, so there's a lot of choice outside of dining that may deliver better value for your points earned.
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