Exactly. As noted in this chain restaurant/gift cert thread here (not sure how to disguise link):

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showt...highlight=gift

I purchased a number of certs/cards in connection with the AA 25 mi per $ promo for exactly this reason. Alas, I wasn't able to do it on line but in some cases called the restaurant and ordered by mail (Melting Pot, Cheeburger Cheeburger) in other cases I happened to be out of town (Fuddruckers, Schakolad) where there were iDine locations of chains that did not particpate in my area. All posted without problem.

If the purchase is made by calling the location directly, or if the web link goes directly to that participating location - and the CC is processed by that participating location - there may not be a problem. But if it goes to another location, it may not be participating!

Even if 123 Main Street in xyz is participating, you may call or visit (via the web) 789 Second Avenue in xyz who is not partipating. Even if you do call 123 Main Street, the CC may be processed at the owner's other location at 789 Second Avenue!:mad:

Unless you visit (in person) the actual location, you can not be sure if the purchase is eligible!

I have very few IDine restaurants in my area. Unfortunately several are bars/clubs. The only way I can get a decent amount of IDines is to plan my visits and check the AA-IDine site often for updates and changes.

For example 2 of my local restaurants have no IDine days close to Christmas and New Years.

I wish I had more to choose from, but the IDine rep isn't working hard around here. If I could do online purchases I would do so. Save hassle and worry about not getting enough Dines for promotions.