Pay Less for Pancakes: How Cashback Apps Boost Your Brunch Budget
Brunch is the ultimate weekend indulgence—pancakes, coffee refills, maybe a side of bacon—but it can also sneakily eat into your wallet. Whether you’re at a retro-style diner or a family-friendly chain, using cashback apps like Fluz, Rakuten, and Ibotta can help you enjoy your brunch favorites without overspending.
Here’s how to combine these apps to save on syrupy stacks and more.
Fluz: Earn Cashback on the Spot with Digital Gift Cards
Fluz makes it easy to pay less for brunch by letting you buy a digital gift card at the exact amount of your bill and use it instantly. For example, if you’re dining at IHOP, Denny’s, or Cracker Barrel, Fluz lets you earn cashback just for paying through the app.
Here’s how to use it in real time:
- When the check comes, open the Fluz app.
- Search for the restaurant you’re at.
- Enter the bill total and purchase a gift card for that amount.
- Use the gift card like cash at checkout—no leftover balances, no prep needed.
Fluz is ideal for dine-in and takeout brunch because the cashback is instant, and you only pay for what you need.
Ibotta: Cashback on Sides, Drinks, and Delivery
If you’re ordering brunch via a delivery platform like Uber Eats or DoorDash, check the Ibotta app for offers on items like juice, cold brew, or pastries. Ibotta works by:
- Activating an offer before you purchase.
- Uploading a receipt or linking your account.
- Getting cash back in your Ibotta wallet after verification.
You’ll also find deals for grocery brunch staples if you’re replicating your diner favorites at home.
Rakuten: Savings Through Dining Portals and Gift Card Marketplaces
While Rakuten is best known for online shopping rebates, it also features restaurant offers and gift card cashback through partner portals. Look for brunch-friendly chains like First Watch or even local diners listed under its restaurant section. You can:
- Search for “restaurants” on Rakuten.
- Earn cashback when buying gift cards or placing an online order.
- Stack these savings with rewards credit cards or loyalty programs.
Real-Life Scenario: Stacking for Maximum Savings
Let’s say you’re planning Sunday brunch at Denny’s:
- Use Fluz to pay your $24 tab with a gift card and earn instant cashback.
- Check Ibotta for any beverage or delivery deals if ordering online.
- Look on Rakuten before buying a gift card or checking the delivery site for additional cashback.
Used together, these apps could save you $3–$5 on a single meal—and that adds up fast if brunch is a regular ritual.
Bonus Tip: Use a Rewards Card or Digital Wallet
Fluz also works with Apple Pay and Google Pay. If your chosen diner isn’t listed on Fluz, you can still earn up to 1.5% cashback by using a Fluz virtual card through your digital wallet.
Conclusion: Enjoy Brunch, Not the Bill
With a few quick taps and a little planning, you can indulge in your brunch favorites while keeping your budget in check. Download Fluz, link your Ibotta and Rakuten accounts, and start turning pancakes into cashback.
