pointstopictures Hilton’s Nightly Food Credit: A Shift from Complimentary Breakfast food and beverage credit
Hilton Honors Diamond and Gold members traditionally enjoyed complimentary continental breakfast Hilton properties where breakfast wasn’t already provided for free. Some hotels even enhanced the offering with full hot breakfast options, making it a standout elite benefit. Since July 2021, however, Hilton has replaced this policy at U.S. properties with a daily food and beverage (F&B) credit. Hilton initially introduced this change as a temporary measure during COVID, when in-person dining wasn’t possible. It seems the credit is here to stay. This change is only for the US. The rest of the world still offers a full breakfast to the elites.
Food & Beverage Credit Details
Hilton’s nightly F&B credit is available exclusively in the U.S. for Gold and Diamond Hilton Honors members. This credit is applicable at select brands across Hilton’s portfolio, including premium and mid-tier hotels. The value of the credit varies by hotel brand and location, with a few markets offering higher amounts.
| Brand | Daily F&B Credit Value (Up to two person) |
|---|---|
| Waldorf Astoria, LXR, Conrad, NoMad | $25 per person |
| Canopy, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Signia, Curio Collection, Graduate Hotels, Tempo, DoubleTree, Motto, Tapestry Collection | $15–$18 per person |
| Hilton Garden Inn | $10 per person |
Gold and Diamond members are eligible for the credit for themselves and one additional registered guest per night. This credit can be applied toward food and beverage purchases at the hotel’s designated restaurants, bars, or lounges. Additionally, any unused credit does not roll over – you need to use it every night.
Flexibility: A Major Perk
One of the standout features of this new policy is flexibility. Unlike the traditional complimentary breakfast, the F&B credit can be used for a wider range of dining options, including:
- Room service
- Snacks and drinks at hotel bars
- Evening meals at the hotel restaurant
This flexibility is particularly appealing for travelers who may not want breakfast or who prefer to enjoy meals later in the day. Guests simply need to charge their food and beverage expenses to their room, and the credit will automatically be applied.
Select Markets Offer Higher Credit
In select high-cost markets, the credit is increased to $30 per night. These are at expensive cities such as Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, New York, and more. It is worth inquiring at the property to see if this applies. This higher credit amount can significantly improve the value for travelers in locations where dining expenses are typically higher.
Downsides: Credit May Not Cover Full Breakfast Costs
Despite the flexibility, the credit amount often falls short of covering the full cost of breakfast at some properties. For example, at Waldorf Astoria or Conrad hotels, where breakfast can cost $40 or more, the $25 credit per person might leave guests paying out-of-pocket. This is especially true in premium properties and high-cost locations, where food prices are higher than average. You also have to use it every night, it does not roll over.
Additionally, the credit applies only to designated hotel outlets and cannot be used at nearby restaurants or for other hotel services. This limitation may frustrate travelers who prefer off-property dining options.
Is this permanent?
Potentially, yes.
Hilton introduced the food and beverage (F&B) credit in 2021 as a temporary solution during the pandemic. However, the credit was extended every year since then. This change aligns well with Hilton’s plan to cut costs and increase profits.
However, it’s unlikely this change will expand outside the U.S., as free breakfast and higher service standards are more expected globally.
Summary
Hilton’s shift to a nightly food and beverage credit brings increased flexibility but also comes with its limitations. The ability to use the credit for a variety of dining options and during different times of the day is a major advantage. However, the credit value may not fully cover breakfast costs at some hotels, especially at premium brands.
For frequent Hilton travelers, understanding how to maximize this benefit is key. While the change may not appeal to everyone. If you compare this benefit with other hotel chains, Marriott, Hyatt, and IHG all offer free breakfast at higher elite levels. If you are a breakfast person, Hilton might not be the best choice for you in the US. Outside US, the breakfast benefit remains one of the best perks offered by Hilton.
