If you’re the kind of person who plans trips (or even entire weekends) around where you’re going to eat, (1) you’re not alone, and (2) American Express Global Dining Access by Resy might just become your new favorite card perk.
This partnership will help you score exclusive reservations, gain insider access to special dinners, and make sure the restaurant knows you’re the stuff before you even walk through the door. So, let’s break it all down.
What is Global Dining Access with Amex?
Global Dining Access is a benefit for eligible American Express cardholders that gives you special perks through Resy, the popular dining reservation platform. It’s basically Amex’s way of making sure you get some special treatment when you go out.
Perks You’ll Get With Global Dining Access (GDA)
Exclusive reservations: Think tables at sought-after restaurants, held just for GDA members (and this will pop up in a pretty purple color on the app).
Priority Notify: If a table opens up at your desired time, you’ll be first in line to snag it (ahead of other Resy users).
Early access to special experiences: We’re talking chef tasting dinners, wine pairing events, or even virtual cooking classes.
VIP Diner badge: You’ll get a little purple badge on your Resy profile that lets restaurants know you’re a Global Dining Access member — it’s subtle, but gives you an extra layer of status. 💁♀️
Photo by McKay / Daily Drop
How to Maximize Your Amex Card for Dining
Add Your Eligible Card to Resy: You’ll need to download the Resy app (or use their website), create an account, and add your eligible Amex card under “Payment Methods.” This automatically triggers Global Dining Access benefits.
Look for the purple bricks: When searching for restaurants on Resy, tables set aside for GDA members show a little purple brick icon, and that’s your green light to book knowing spots are held just for you.
Set Priority Notify: Can’t get the time you want? Tap “Notify” and you’ll be first in line for alerts if that perfect 7:30 p.m. slot opens up. I use this ALL the time (and it’s gotten me some pretty sweet seats at some pretty sweet spots).
Keep an eye out for special events: From big-ticket wine dinners to off-menu chef collabs, Resy and Amex run exclusive dining experiences all year long. You’ll often get pre-sale invites or first dibs on booking, which is fun!
Best Amex Cards for Resy Dining Access
Not every American Express card unlocks Global Dining Access since this is a premium perk tied to specific cards. You’ll need to carry:
The Platinum Card® from American Express (personal, Business, Morgan Stanley, Charles Schwab, or Goldman Sachs versions)
The Centurion® Card from American Express (aka the Black Card)
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
Corporate Platinum or Centurion Cards
All of these cards unlock Global Dining Access, and several of them also earn valuable Membership Rewards you can use toward your next trip to dine somewhere even more boujee.
Where You Can Use Global Dining Access
Here’s a hint of what you can book with Global Dining Access right now (and why it’s worth adding your card to your Resy profile):
New York: Carbone (Italian), Le Bernardin (French), Bungalow (Indian), Crown Shy (New American).
Los Angeles: Jon & Vinny’s (Italian comfort food), Gjelina (Venice hotspot).
Miami: Cote (Korean steakhouse), Mandolin Aegean Bistro.
Chicago: Monteverde (Italian pastificio), Girl & The Goat.
Savannah: The Grey (Southern food).
Washington D.C.: Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi.
And plenty more across the U.S. (plus more options internationally).
‼️ What about fees? There’s no extra fee to book through Global Dining Access, but obviously, you’re still paying for your meal (and responsible for any cancellation penalties). Just know your card perks often come with travel credits, dining statement credits, or bonus points, so some of that spending comes back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay extra to use Global Dining Access?
No, there’s no fee from Amex or Resy to use this — you just pay for your actual meal, obvi.
Can I share my benefits with friends?
You cannot share these benefits directly. The reservations and perks are tied to your Resy profile and eligible card.
Is Global Dining Access available outside the U.S.?
It’s growing, with more international restaurants added each year, but still strongest in U.S. dining hubs.
Do I have to pay with my American Express card?
Yes, in order to keep the perks (and show that badge on your profile), you’ll want to pay with your eligible American Express card.
Bottom Line
If you’ve ever tried to book a Saturday night table at a top restaurant only to be told, “Sorry, we’re full for the next three months,” Global Dining Access by Resy is basically your new BFF. For real y’all, I’ve had notifications on for some pretty tough reservations, have been notified, and was able to quickly book!
If your bucket list is full of fun restaurants with tough reservations, adding your Amex Platinum, Hilton Amex Aspire, or any other eligible card to your Resy profile is one of the easiest tricks out there.
Download the app, look for the purple bricks, and get ready to eat!
