Holiday Guide to Gift Card Bonus Deals: Part 1

Looking to buy friends, family and co-workers gift cards this year? Check out these deals and save on shipping charges by going to the restaurant to buy gift cards instead of buying online. If you would like to order online, many restaurants have the option to create customized gift cards or send eCards. Be aware that bonus or reward cards have restrictions on what dates they are valid and some have minimum purchase requirements.

Watch for more gift card bonus deals posted next week.

• Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Deal: Buy $100 worth of gift cards and get a $20 bonus card. Fleming’s is also offering a $25 dining credit every time you dine there through Dec. 30th with a minimum purchase of $50, but you must make reservations online to get the deal.

Good through: Purchase by Dec. 31, 2011. The bonus card is valid from Jan. 1 to Feb. 10, 2012.

• Carrabba’s Italian Grill 

Deal: Buy $100 worth of and get a $20 Amore bonus card and be entered to win $5,000.

Good through: Purchase by Dec. 31, 2011. The bonus card is valid from Jan. 1 to Feb. 10, 2012.

• Outback Steakhouse

Deal: Buy $100 worth of gift cards and get a $20 bonus card.

Good through: Purchase by Dec. 31, 2011. The bonus card is valid from Jan. 1 to Feb. 10, 2012.

• Maggiano’s

Deal: Buy $100 worth of gift cards and get a $20 Bonus card + a one-year subscription to Food & Wine magazine. Maggiano’s has an option to buy eGift cards online, but you’ll need to stop by if you prefer a physical gift card.

Good through: Purchase by Dec. 31, 2011. The Bonus card is valid from Jan. 1 to 29, 2012.

• Chili’s

Deal: Buy $100 worth of gift cards at and save 10%.

Good through: Limited time offer. Currently available.

• California Pizza Kitchen

Deal: Buy $100 worth of gift cards and get a $20 Rewards card.

Good through: Purchase by Dec. 24, 2011. The Rewards card is valid from Jan. 3 to March 6, 2012.