Dining out doesn’t have to mean draining your wallet—especially when flash deals pop up at just the right time. From rotating weekday specials to limited-time combo offers and cashback boosts, knowing where and when to eat can make all the difference. Whether you’re planning a quick bite or a sit-down meal, these restaurants are known for offering short-term promotions that reward fast action.
Below are some of the best dining spots where flash deals and smart payment strategies can stretch your dollars further.
Applebee’s – 2 for $25 and Limited-Time Menu Deals
Applebee’s continues to rotate its 2 for $25 deal, where you get two full entrees and an appetizer. It’s one of the most recognizable value bundles in casual dining. They also offer limited-time items like seasonal cocktails or holiday-themed appetizers.
Check the Applebee’s deals page for current offers.
Buffalo Wild Wings – Wing Tuesdays & Boneless Thursdays
Known for its weekday promotions, Buffalo Wild Wings runs two of the most consistent flash deals around: BOGO traditional wings on Tuesdays and BOGO boneless wings on Thursdays. You can earn cashback with a Buffalo Wild Wings gift card if you buy through Fluz just before ordering.
Sonic Drive-In – App-Only Half-Price Drinks and Combos
Sonic constantly rotates flash deals within its app, including half-price drinks, slushes, and select combo meals. The best part? These discounts apply all day when you order via the Sonic app, not just during “happy hour.”
Download the Sonic app to activate these deals.
Chipotle – Occasional Promo Codes + Rewards Program
Chipotle occasionally rolls out promo codes for free chips, drinks, or BOGO deals, usually tied to events or reward milestones. They’re rarely advertised widely, so keeping the app installed and notifications on is key. Combine those perks with cashback tools like Fluz to get Chipotle at a discount.
TGI Fridays – Happy Hour & Endless Apps
TGI Fridays’ Endless Apps deal resurfaces throughout the year, often paired with drink specials and loyalty bonuses. They also have one of the more robust happy hour menus among national chains.
Check their promotions page for current offers by location.
Panera Bread – Free Coffee Club Trials and Seasonal Promotions
Panera frequently offers limited-time trials of their Unlimited Sip Club, which includes free coffee and tea for a month. They also run seasonal promotions like $1 bakery items or soup pairings during colder months. Before ordering, buy a Panera Bread gift card online through Fluz to get cashback instantly.
Red Lobster – Daily Deals and Feast Events
From Endless Shrimp Mondays to Crabfest and Lobsterfest events, Red Lobster is known for rotating value-packed seafood promos. These limited-time events offer some of the best per-dollar portions in casual seafood dining.
Get Red Lobster gift card cashback deals when paying through Fluz.
How to Spot Flash Deals Before They Disappear
Not all restaurant deals are advertised in-store. Here’s how to find them first:
- Sign up for restaurant email lists and apps (they often push early access deals).
- Follow your favorite spots on social media for deal alerts.
- Use platforms like Fluz to check for gift card boosts that coincide with promo periods.
Flash deals don’t last long, but with the right timing and payment method, they can add up to serious savings—without sacrificing your favorite flavors.
