Understanding Merchant Category Code (MCC) 5812: Eating Places and Restaurants
Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) help acquirers, payment service providers, and card networks identify the nature of a business. MCC 5812 is the Merchant Category Code assigned to “Eating Places and Restaurants.” This code is used by card networks (such as Visa and Mastercard) to classify businesses primarily engaged in the retail sale of prepared food and drinks for on-premise or immediate consumption. The code helps payment processors and banks determine transaction types, apply appropriate fees, and manage risk for merchants in the food service industry.
Types of Businesses Under MCC 5812
The scope of MCC 5812 is broad, encompassing a wide range of food service establishments. Businesses typically classified under MCC 5812 include:
- Full-service restaurants (casual, fine dining, family-style)
- Cafés and coffee shops
- Cafeterias and buffets
- Diners and luncheonettes
- Pizza parlours and pizzerias
Ice cream and frozen custard stands - Sandwich shops and snack bars
- Dairy bars
- Carry-out and take-away restaurants
- Caterers
- Dinner theaters
- Commissary restaurants
- Concession stands (e.g., in airports, stadiums)
- Food bars and refreshment stands
This classification is intentionally inclusive, covering almost any establishment where prepared food and beverages are sold for immediate consumption, whether customers dine in, take out, or order for delivery.
Key Considerations When Accepting Payments for MCC 5812
Restaurants face unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to payment processing.
Here are some essential considerations for businesses under MCC 5812:
Payment Method Variety
Modern diners expect flexibility. Accepting a wide range of payment types—credit/debit cards, contactless payments, mobile wallets, and online payments for delivery or pickup—can enhance customer satisfaction and increase sales.
Speed and Efficiency
Quick, simple transactions are vital, especially during peak hours. Integrated payment systems that work with your POS can help reduce wait times, minimise errors, and improve the overall dining experience.
Tipping and Bill Splitting
Restaurants need solutions that support tipping (both percentage and fixed amounts) and make it easy to split bills among guests—features that can increase staff satisfaction and customer convenience.
Security and Compliance
Payment security is non-negotiable. Ensure your provider supports EMV chip cards, PCI DSS compliance, and encryption to protect customer data and reduce fraud risk.
Reporting and Reconciliation
Detailed, real-time reporting and consolidated transaction data simplify accounting and financial management, which is especially important for multi-location chains or franchises.
Chargebacks and Risk Management
MCC 5812 is generally considered lower risk than fast food (MCC 5814), but chargebacks can still occur. Look for providers with robust chargeback management and support.
How to Choose a Reliable Payment Service Provider
Selecting the right payment service provider (PSP) is a strategic decision for any restaurant. Here’s what to look for:
Industry Experience
Choose a PSP with proven experience in the restaurant sector. Providers like Rapyd offer tailored solutions for food service businesses, including integration with ePOS systems, mobile and countertop terminals, and online payment capabilities.
Transparent Pricing
Look for clear, competitive pricing without hidden fees. Understand the costs for card-present and card-not-present transactions, as well as any additional charges for features like tipping or bill splitting.
Support and Reliability
Reliable, round-the-clock support is invaluable, especially during busy periods. A dedicated account manager and responsive customer service can make a significant difference in day-to-day operations.
Fast Settlements
Quick access to your funds (next-day settlements) helps maintain healthy cash flow, which is vital in the restaurant business.
Scalability
As your business grows, your PSP should offer solutions that scale with you, whether you’re expanding to new locations, adding online ordering, or launching new service models.
Win Your Checkout
MCC 5812 serves as the backbone for classifying eating places and restaurants within the payments ecosystem. Understanding what this code covers, the payment needs of your business, and how to select the right payment partner can set your restaurant up for operational efficiency and growth. With Rapyd’s unified payment solutions, restaurants can simplify transactions, enhance customer experiences, and focus on what matters most: serving great food.
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