Restaurant Loyalty Programs in Canada: Where to Eat and Earn
Restaurant Loyalty Programs in Canada: Where to Eat and Earn
Restaurant loyalty programs have become a staple for Canadians looking to save money and enjoy perks on their favorite meals. From coffee runs to burrito bowls, top chains like Tim Hortons, McDonald's, Wendy's, Chipotle, and others now offer robust rewards programs that make every dollar count. Here's a review of the best programs in 2025 and how to get the most free food and perks.
Tim Hortons Tims Rewards
How It Works:
Recent changes mean you now need to spend $40 to earn a free coffee (400 points at 10 points per dollar). While some longtime fans aren't thrilled, the program still delivers value for frequent visitors especially if you use the Tim Hortons app for bonus offers and digital ordering. Tips for More Perks:
- Earn 10 points for every $1 spent at Tim Hortons.
- Redeem 400 points for a free brewed coffee, tea, or select baked goods.
- Points can also be redeemed for Dream Donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and more.
Recent changes mean you now need to spend $40 to earn a free coffee (400 points at 10 points per dollar). While some longtime fans aren't thrilled, the program still delivers value for frequent visitors especially if you use the Tim Hortons app for bonus offers and digital ordering. Tips for More Perks:
- Use the app to access exclusive deals and double points events.
- Pay with a Tim Hortons credit card to boost your earn rate (15 points per $1 in some cases).
- Redeem points for premium menu items to maximize value.
McDonald's MyMcDonald's Rewards
How It Works:
The program is easy to use via the McDonald's app, and points add up quickly. Bonus points events and personalized offers are common, and you can order ahead for convenience. Tips for More Perks:
- Earn 100 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases.
- Redeem points for menu items in tiered categories (e.g., 2,000 points for a coffee, 6,000 for a Big Mac).
- Receive a 5,000-point welcome bonus when you sign up.
The program is easy to use via the McDonald's app, and points add up quickly. Bonus points events and personalized offers are common, and you can order ahead for convenience. Tips for More Perks:
- Always check the app for weekly exclusive offers.
- Stack bonus points events with regular purchases.
- Redeem points for higher-value items (like specialty drinks) for the best return.
Wendy's Rewards
How It Works:
Wendy's keeps it simple and transparent spend more, earn more, and redeem whenever you want. The program features instant gratification, with rewards available after just a few purchases. Tips for More Perks:
- Earn 10 points for every $1 spent via the Wendy's app or by scanning your QR code at the counter.
- Redeem points for free menu items, starting as low as 150 points for small treats.
- Enjoy rotating offers, birthday bonuses, and app-exclusive deals.
Wendy's keeps it simple and transparent spend more, earn more, and redeem whenever you want. The program features instant gratification, with rewards available after just a few purchases. Tips for More Perks:
- Activate account-level boosters like double points for new members.
- Complete streak challenges and take advantage of 'Happy Nugget Hour' for extra points.
- Use a dining cash-back credit card for additional savings.
Chipotle Rewards
How It Works:
Chipotle's program is straightforward and rewarding. The app makes it easy to track points, and the birthday treat and first-purchase bonus provide immediate value. The program also encourages healthy eating with rewards for nutritious choices. Tips for More Perks:
- Earn 10 points for every $1 spent in-store, online, or in the app.
- Redeem points for free chips, guacamole, drinks, or full meals (starting at 1,250 points).
- Enjoy a free chips and guac on your first purchase as a member and a birthday treat each year.
- Participate in app-based challenges and achievement badges for bonus points.
Chipotle's program is straightforward and rewarding. The app makes it easy to track points, and the birthday treat and first-purchase bonus provide immediate value. The program also encourages healthy eating with rewards for nutritious choices. Tips for More Perks:
- Use the app for ordering to earn points on every purchase.
- Complete challenges for bonus points and exclusive rewards.
- Redeem points for higher-value items like full meals for the best return.
The Bottom Line
Restaurant loyalty programs in Canada offer real value for frequent diners. By choosing the right programs and using their apps effectively, you can enjoy free food, exclusive perks, and significant savings on your favorite meals. Whether you're a coffee lover, fast-food fan, or health-conscious eater, there's a program designed to reward your dining habits.