If you’re someone who enjoys a night out but also keeps an eye on your spending, you’ve probably wondered whether it’s possible to earn cashback on bar purchases. While bars aren’t traditionally associated with rewards, there are multiple ways to get money back on your tab—especially when visiting bar-restaurant hybrids or national chains.
Here’s a breakdown of how cashback works at bars and the smartest tools to make it happen.
- Buy digital gift cards with cashback apps
One of the most straightforward ways to earn rewards at bars is by purchasing digital gift cards through a cashback platform like Fluz. You can earn cashback with a Chili’s gift card, buy a Dave & Buster’s gift card online, or get rewards with a BJ’s Restaurant gift card in real time through the Fluz app.
These gift cards can be used immediately at participating chains and typically apply to drinks, food, tax, and tips—making them ideal for nights out.
- Scan receipts with rewards apps
Some cashback platforms like Ibotta allow users to scan receipts from select restaurants and bars to earn rewards after dining. If your favorite spot partners with Ibotta, just upload your receipt to get a portion of your spend back.
While most independent bars aren’t included, this works well for larger chains that also serve alcohol and have a food-first business model.
- Link your card to earn automatically
Apps like Rakuten offer linked card offers for dining and drinks. Once you connect your debit or credit card, the app tracks your purchases and automatically issues cashback when you dine at participating locations. It’s a hands-off way to earn rewards if you don’t want to use gift cards or scan receipts.
- Use virtual cards at the register
When digital gift cards aren’t an option, you can still earn cashback by paying with a Fluz virtual card. These cards work through Apple Pay or Google Pay at select merchants. While not all bars accept them, they’re especially useful at restaurants or chains that support tap-to-pay terminals.
Explore compatible merchants by browsing Fluz before you head out.
- Double up with loyalty programs
If your go-to bar is part of a larger brand—like Chili’s, BJ’s, or Dave & Buster’s—you can stack your gift card or cashback earnings with their own rewards program. For example, My Chili’s Rewards offers free chips and salsa for members, while BJ’s Premier Rewards Plus gives points for every dollar spent.
This lets you earn cashback from one platform and points from another—all in the same transaction.
Bottom line: yes, it’s possible—and worth it
While traditional bars may not always offer rewards directly, you can still earn cashback through gift cards, receipt scanning, virtual payments, or linked card offers at participating establishments. With a bit of planning, your next bar tab could come with money back in your wallet.
