Two of my favorite local icons are cash only.

In Pittsburgh, you really don't want to pass up breakfast at Pamela's. The hotcakes are a life-changing experience. Cash only. So what? It's the best breakfast in town, so do it. If I had to pay in pennies for a Pam's hotcake, I'd do it.

And here in DC, you're gonna have to pay cash for that Chili Half Smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl. But you gotta do what you gotta do. With mustard and onions, please.

Local and regional favorites count for more than a few points or miles on your credit card. There's plenty of other opportunities to get your rewards points without missing out on great local stuff.