Mastercard is significantly expanding its premium dining programme across Asia Pacific, giving eligible cardholders access to roughly 1,300 acclaimed restaurants in 14 markets. The move, announced this month, doubles the current roster of 650 venues and includes Michelin-starred establishments and restaurants recognised by Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Cardholders can now enjoy up to US$200 off their dining bill at participating restaurants, with discounts applied directly at the point of sale. The programme, part of Mastercard’s globally connected portfolio, aims to deliver premium dining, travel, and entertainment experiences to its high-spend customers.
Expansion across key Asia-Pacific markets
The expanded collection spans Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Notable venues include Odette and JAAN by Kirk Westaway in Singapore, Arbor in Hong Kong, and Maison Lameloise in Shanghai.
Mastercard said the programme will grow to 1,300 venues by 1 February 2027, offering cardholders a broader range of dining options whether at home or travelling. Instant reservations are available at participating restaurants, ensuring seamless access to some of the region’s most sought-after tables.
The expansion comes as travel and dining experiences become increasingly intertwined, particularly for premium cardholders who value exclusive access. For travel professionals, the programme adds another layer of value for clients seeking curated culinary experiences, especially in gateway cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, and Shanghai.
Mastercard’s initiative also aligns with broader trends in luxury travel, where dining is a key driver of destination choice. As accessible travel infrastructure becomes a growing concern across Asia, premium dining programmes like this one cater to a demographic that prioritises convenience and exclusivity.
The company has not disclosed the total investment in the programme, but the expansion signals a competitive push in the premium dining space, where rivals like Visa and American Express also offer similar benefits. Mastercard’s global network allows cardholders to use the same benefits across multiple regions, a key differentiator for frequent international travellers.
For hoteliers and tour operators, the programme offers a potential partnership avenue. Hotels can leverage Mastercard’s dining collection to enhance guest experiences, while tour operators can package culinary itineraries around these venues. The programme’s growth to 1,300 restaurants by 2027 suggests a long-term commitment to the region’s dining scene.
Mastercard’s expansion also reflects the resilience of the Asia-Pacific dining market, which has rebounded strongly post-pandemic. With international travel recovering, premium dining is expected to remain a growth area, particularly in cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Bangkok, where culinary tourism is a major draw.
Travel advisors and agents can use the programme to add value for clients, particularly those planning luxury trips. By highlighting access to Michelin-starred restaurants and exclusive dining privileges, agents can differentiate their offerings in a competitive market.
As the programme rolls out, Mastercard is likely to add more venues and markets, further cementing its position in the premium lifestyle space. For now, eligible cardholders can start enjoying the expanded benefits immediately, with the full 1,300-venue roster expected by early 2027.
