Each restaurant has it's own rules for using the certificate. there are also general rules for all coupons. They call these general rules "restaurant specific" but they are for all the coupons, I have 10 in my hands right now and they all say the same thing.
I will cut and paste one of my certificates here to show you.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
Redeemable only at: xxxxxxx xxxxx
Address: 395 XXXXXX XXX
XXXXXX, XX
Telephone: (XXX) XXX-XXXX
Special Instructions: Minimum purchase of $50. 18% Gratuity added prior to discount. Valid for Dinner ONLY. Excludes: Alcohol. One certificate per table. No split checks.
RESTAURANT SPECIFIC GIFT CERTIFICATES
Limit one (1) redemption per party, per month, per restaurant.
Limit one (1) Restaurant Specific Gift Certificate per redemption
Only one Restaurant Specific Gift Certificate can be used per party, even if the party is seated at separate tables and/or receives more than one check.
Use of Restaurant Specific Gift Certificates for alcoholic beverages is at the sole discretion of the restaurant.
It goes on to say you can't use other coupons, gift certificates or promotions for the restaurant at the same time
Cannot be used for taxes or tips
no cash value, valid for parties of 2 or more, for dine in only unless otherwise stated.
Can be exchanged for another certificate within 90 days of purchase (Wrong because I had one that was almost 10 months old that the restaurant closed and they credited me for it and I bought one for another restaurant)
Expires one year from purchase (this they do stick to, I misplaced one and found it after the year and they didn't credit me but it only cost me $.80)