Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card: Worth It?

Link: Apply now for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Behold, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card—it’s the fanciest of the fancy in the Marriott universe. One glance at the annual fee might make you clutch your pearls, but hold onto your monocle, because the perks pack a punch.

Let’s dig into why this card deserves a spot in your wallet and how, I dare say, it earns its keep, despite its posh price tag. Now might just be the perfect time to click that “apply now” button.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card Welcome Offer

If you’re feeling impulsive before May 14, 2025, signing up for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card comes with a cherry on top—a limited-time smorgasbord of 185,000 Bonvoy bonus points, once you’ve shed $6,000 in the first half-year. How much are those glittering points worth, you ponder? I’d peg them at $1,295. Now, isn’t that a sweet deal?

Why the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card is Worth It

Yes, the card does demand $650 annually, and yes, that is a chunk of change. But hang tight! This snazzy little rectangle might just make it rain value. I myself flaunt it in my cardholder, relishing in the treasures it showers upon me. Read on for the five shining goodies that, in my humble opinion, make this card a superstar.

$300 Annual Restaurant Credit

Dining out regularly? You’re in luck! This card tantalizes with up to $300 in restaurant credits annually. Think of the monthly joy of up to $25 magically refunded from your culinary escapades—whether brunching on a trip to Val Seny ski resort or indulging in a caffeine-fueled morning pick-me-up. Load that $25 onto your Starbucks account monthly, and boom, statement credit received. Easy peasy, no sign-ups, just credit joy.

Free Night Award Worth Up to 85,000 Points

Once a year, as if to say “thank you for existing,” the card graces you with a free night award. Use it at any property racking up to 85,000 Bonvoy points per night. Want a fancier stay? Top it off with additional points to reach the magic number of 100,000. I once used my freebie at the glitzy Ritz-Carlton Kyoto—room rate? A wallet-busting $2,000, but not for me!

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status

By holding this card, you automatically bask in the gleam of Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status. This halo of privileges typically demands a grueling 50 elite nights per year. But for you, free breakfasts, suite upgrades, and late check-outs await without lifting a finger. Even better—years of status contribute towards snatching that coveted lifetime status. Snazzy, right?

25 Elite Nights Toward Bonvoy Status

This card slaps down 25 elite nights toward your status journey every single year. Want more trophies? Aim for Marriott Bonvoy Choice Benefits or strut towards higher echelons of Titanium and Ambassador Elite status. These nights could be your golden ticket.

A Priority Pass Membership

Jet-setters, rejoice! The card hands over a Priority Pass™ Select membership, enveloping you in the world of airport lounges. Forget lounging amidst crowded gates; indulge in plush comfort and snacks galore as you await takeoff.

Bottom Line

In my world, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card is a gem, glistening with possibilities. True, it has a lofty $650 annual fee, but with a $300 restaurant credit and free night award, you’re already quids in. Add in the luxurious perks of Platinum Elite status and elite night credits, and this card stands as a beacon of value.

Have you tested the waters with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card? Share your stories!

For transparency, here are the nitty-gritty details: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Rates & Fees.