They're not ripping you off, they're ripping off the government of the United States. Plus, if you have to use a credit card to go out to dinner, then you shouldn't be going out to dinner.
Bugsy, last time you went out to eat did you happen to check your bill? Did you see a tax of 8.875%? So if you pay cash do you think the owner is reporting that? You in essence are adding another 8.875% TO YOUR BILL. I only use credit cards unless someone wants to negotiate then I pay cash. I use credit cards for everything, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Pizzerias, every where. And as a side note, I can afford going out to eat and I only use Amex.
