If you’re a fast food regular, using cashback apps can turn everyday meals into smart savings. But with so many platforms out there—each offering different brands, payout options, and rates—it can be hard to know which one gives you the most value at your favorite drive-thru or delivery spot.
In this comparison, we break down how three popular platforms—Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta—stack up when it comes to earning cashback at fast food restaurants.
- Fluz: Instant Cashback via Gift Cards
Fluz offers instant cashback when you purchase digital gift cards for fast food chains, making it one of the fastest ways to earn rewards. You can buy gift cards for the exact amount due at the register or checkout screen and receive cashback immediately.
Top perks:
- Instant cashback, often higher than traditional portals
- Supports exact purchase amounts (no leftovers on gift cards)
- Fast food brands like Chipotle, Papa John’s, Culver’s, and Buffalo Wild Wings
- No receipt scanning required
Fluz is especially useful for in-person ordering or when paying in a restaurant’s mobile app. You can also stack savings with loyalty programs like Chick-fil-A One or Panera’s MyPanera.
- Rakuten: Cashback Through Partnered Online Orders
Rakuten partners with delivery platforms like Grubhub and DoorDash to offer cashback on takeout and delivery orders. You activate offers through Rakuten’s website or app and place your order as usual through the delivery site.
Top perks:
- Seamless integration with major food delivery apps
- No gift cards or codes needed
- Earns cashback in addition to any credit card points
The downside? Rakuten’s cashback is usually limited to delivery and may not apply to direct restaurant orders. It’s best for people who order through apps instead of dining in.
- Ibotta: Cashback on Specific Promotions
Ibotta gives users cashback for purchasing specific food items at grocery stores and some fast casual chains. Occasionally, Ibotta includes offers from restaurants like Burger King or Subway, often tied to limited-time promos.
Top perks:
- Wide brand selection across grocery and dining
- Stacks with other payment methods and rewards
- Receipt and app-based offers
However, Ibotta requires receipt uploads or offer activation before purchasing. It’s a great option if you plan ahead or shop for fast food items at grocery retailers.
Which app is best for fast food cashback?
- Best for in-store or exact purchases: Fluz
- Best for delivery orders: Rakuten
- Best for item-specific deals or grocery fast food items: Ibotta
Pro tip: You can often use more than one app. For example, use Fluz to get cashback on a Papa John’s gift card, then earn loyalty points in the Papa Rewards app when you order. Or activate Rakuten before placing a Grubhub order, then pay with a gift card bought through Fluz.
Final thoughts
Fast food doesn’t have to mean full price. With the right app—or a combination of them—you can get cashback at fast food chains every time you order. Whether you’re a drive-thru regular or a weekend delivery fan, platforms like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta give you options to earn without changing your routine.
