Citi Enters Premium Credit Card Market with Dining-Focused Strata Elite Card

Citigroup has launched the Citi Strata Elite card, a new contender in the premium credit card arena dominated by rival banks. With an annual fee approaching $600, the card targets affluent consumers through dining rewards and travel perks—though its weekend restaurant bonus structure may give frequent travelers pause.

The Strata Elite offers 80,000 ThankYou points for spending $4,000 in the first three months. Its unique selling point: 6x points on Friday and Saturday night dining from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ET, including delivery services. Travel bookings through Citi’s platform earn up to 12x points.

"We designed this for premium cardholders who prioritize dining and flexible travel benefits," said Pete D'Aleo, Citi’s Head of Innovation for U.S. Branded Cards. The bank estimates annual value could reach $1,500 per user.