American Express Gold Card Review: The Ultimate Dining Rewards Card
Introduction
The American Express® Gold Card is a top-tier rewards credit card known for its exceptional dining and travel benefits. Whether you are a foodie, a frequent traveler, or someone looking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases, this card is designed to offer outstanding value. In this in-depth review, we will explore the features, benefits, fees, rewards, and lesser-known aspects of the Amex Gold Card to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Key Features at a Glance
- Annual Fee: $250
- Welcome Bonus: Varies (Typically 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months)
- Rewards Rate:
- 4X Membership Rewards points on dining worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1X)
- 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com
- 1X points on all other purchases
- Credits & Perks:
- Up to $120 annual dining credit ($10 per month) at select restaurants and food delivery services
- Up to $120 in Uber Cash annually ($10 per month for Uber Eats or Uber rides)
- No foreign transaction fees
- Access to Amex Offers and The Hotel Collection benefits
Who Should Consider the American Express Gold Card?
The Amex Gold Card is ideal for individuals who:
- Dine out frequently or order food delivery
- Shop at U.S. supermarkets regularly
- Travel occasionally and want solid airline rewards
- Can maximize the dining and Uber credits to offset the annual fee
- Want premium benefits without the higher cost of The Platinum Card® from American Express
In-Depth Rewards Breakdown
Dining Rewards: 4X Points on Restaurants Worldwide
The American Express Gold Card offers one of the highest reward rates on dining available in the industry. Whether you eat at local restaurants, fast food chains, or order delivery via services like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and Seamless, you will earn 4X Membership Rewards points per dollar spent.
Supermarket Spending: 4X Points on U.S. Groceries
Grocery shopping is another lucrative category with the Amex Gold Card. You will earn 4X points on purchases at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year; then 1X). If you spend around $500 per month on groceries, that’s an extra 24,000 points per year.
Airfare: 3X Points on Flights
While this card isn’t primarily for travel, earning 3X Membership Rewards points on airfare can still provide solid value for occasional flyers. Book your flights directly through airlines or via AmexTravel.com to qualify.
Other Spending: 1X Points
All other purchases earn 1X Membership Rewards points per dollar spent. For non-bonus category spending, a flat-rate cashback card may be a better option.
Maximizing the Card’s Value: Credits & Perks
$120 Annual Dining Credit
- Get $10 in statement credits per month when using the card at participating restaurants and delivery services, including Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar, and Shake Shack.
- This perk alone can offset almost half the annual fee if fully used.
$120 Uber Cash
- Receive $10 per month in Uber Cash, applicable for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S.
- Just add the card to your Uber account to activate the credit.
Travel Protections & Amex Offers
- Baggage Insurance Plan: Coverage for lost, damaged, or stolen baggage.
- Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance: Secondary rental car insurance when paying with the card.
- Amex Offers: Personalized cashback and point-earning deals across retailers, hotels, and travel providers.
Fees & Potential Downsides
Annual Fee: $250
While the fee may seem high, frequent users of the rewards and credits can more than make up for it. If you can’t utilize the dining and Uber credits, the value diminishes.
No Lounge Access
Unlike the Platinum Card® from American Express, the Gold Card does not include airport lounge access. If you travel often and want lounge perks, you may need a separate lounge membership.
Supermarket Bonus Limited to U.S. Stores
The 4X points on groceries only apply to U.S. supermarkets, so international travelers may not benefit as much.
How It Compares to Other Cards
| Feature | Amex Gold | Chase Sapphire Preferred | Capital One SavorOne |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dining Rewards | 4X | 3X | 3% Cash Back |
| Supermarkets | 4X (U.S. only) | 1X | 3% Cash Back |
| Airfare | 3X | 2X | 1% |
| Travel Perks | Some | Strong | Limited |
| Annual Fee | $250 | $95 | $0 |
FAQs
1. Does the Amex Gold Card have foreign transaction fees?
No, the card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it great for international dining and travel.
2. Can I carry a balance on the Amex Gold Card?
Yes, but it’s a Pay Over Time card, meaning some purchases must be paid in full each month.
3. What credit score is needed for approval?
Typically, a good to excellent credit score (700+ recommended) is required.
4. Do Membership Rewards points expire?
No, Amex points do not expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing.
5. Is the Amex Gold Card metal?
Yes, it’s a metal card with a premium feel and comes in Gold or Rose Gold finishes.
Final Verdict: Is the Amex Gold Card Worth It?
The American Express Gold Card is a fantastic option for food lovers and frequent grocery shoppers, offering unmatched rewards in these categories. If you can maximize its dining and Uber credits, it essentially offsets much of the $250 annual fee. While it lacks premium travel perks like lounge access, it remains one of the best all-around rewards cards for everyday spending.
If you prioritize dining, groceries, and occasional travel, the Amex Gold Card is an excellent choice in 2025.
