I have had a Capital One card for many years. Until recently, I had forgotten about one of the special perks for cardholders: the ability to get discounted drinks at Capital One cafes.
I had just finished a run and was walking home when I stumbled upon a Capital One cafe in downtown Portland, Oregon. Since I’m a cardholder, I was able to visit the Capital One Cafe and get 50% off the craft drinks I ordered.
If you need your daily caffeine fix, this generous perk can save you more money than you think, especially when coffee and tea drinks typically cost $6 to $8 a bottle. All Capital One and Discover credit and debit card holders are eligible for this offer, so you don’t need to worry about having a specific Capital One card to take advantage of this offer.
Here’s everything you need to know to take advantage of this benefit.
What is Capital One Cafe?
Capital One Cafe is both a bank and a coffee shop. You can perform some minor banking services at one of the ATMs, such as withdrawing money and depositing checks. You can also ask questions to one of Capital One advisors. However, you won’t be able to do everything you can typically do at a full-service bank.
You can also order light meals, drinks and desserts when you visit more than 60 locations across the U.S. marked as cafes. They have plenty of seating and fast wifi for those who want to get work done.
How to use discount
Taking advantage of your cardholder discount is easy. Just place your order and the barista will usually ask if you have a Capital One or Discover card. If the barista doesn’t ask you, just mention that you have a Capital One or Discover card and your drink will be discounted. You’ll see signage throughout the cafe highlighting this benefit for cardholders.
You can use this discount at any Capital One cafe nationwide. It applies to any drink purchase and there is no limit on the number of drinks you can order and use the discount on. Food not included.
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How to maximize this discount
I’ve been into matcha lately, so having the opportunity to get a specialty drink for under $4 in a major metropolitan area is a huge win for me. Drink prices are similar to those offered at Dunkin’, Starbucks, and most coffee shops in big cities.
For regulars looking for a daily caffeine fix, this can save about $20 to $40 per month.
Since this discount can be applied to a variety of beverages (although it can’t be stacked with any other discount), it’s a great way to treat coworkers, friends, or family to coffee and other beverages.
Also keep in mind that these cafes host happy hours and daily specials, which vary by location. When I visited, the downtown Portland location was offering $3 drinks every Wednesday at 3 p.m. until the end of the year.
Related: Best Dining Credit Cards
What cards can I use?
You can enjoy half-price drinks with any Capital One or Discover credit or debit card. If you don’t currently have a card, here are some of my top picks you can consider applying for:
Or, if you’re not in the market for a credit card, you can choose the 360 Checking debit card that’s attached to the free Capital One 360 Checking account.
360 Checking debit card information is collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Related: Why the Capital One Venture X might be the best choice for your first premium card
What to order
There are a variety of drink and flavor combinations to choose from, and since you’re only paying half the price, it’s easy to try a few. You can try different options until you find the one you like best.
Some of my favorite drinks are:
- Iced caramel latte
- Iced Honey Lavender Latte
- Iced Honey Lavender Matcha
- Iced Vanilla Matcha
The Honey Lavender Latte is the signature drink of Capital One Cafe and it tastes quite delicious.
But if you’re a coffee purist and don’t like flavored coffee, you can get discounted black coffee for just $2. Additionally, there are a variety of decaffeinated beverages available for those who don’t want to consume caffeine.
I’ve tried the food here a few times, but it’s hit or miss.
bottom line
Capital One and Discover cardholders shouldn’t overlook this benefit. Just head to your nearest Capital One Cafe and enjoy 50% off on caffeinated drinks like lattes, matcha and more.
Related: The best time to apply for these popular Capital One credit cards based on offer history
