Online table reservation means guests book a table around the clock via the website (or Google profile and social media) — with instant confirmation, automatic reminders and a digital reservation book for the operation. It replaces the constant phone ringing during service, lowers the no-show rate through reminders and makes shift utilisation plannable.
How much working time does taking reservations by phone consume — and how much can shift online?
Not included: missed calls during service (= lost reservations) and the lower no-show rate thanks to automatic reminders.
| Criterion | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Own website first | Widget on your own site + Google integration ("Reserve a table" button); scrutinise portals where the portal owns the guest data. |
| Capacity logic | Table combinations, slots/seating duration, buffer for walk-ins — otherwise the system books you full while space remains (or vice versa). |
| No-show tools | Reminders, one-click cancellation, waitlist, optional card guarantee above group size X. |
| Pricing model | A monthly flat fee beats a fee per seated guest — the latter scales against you. |
| GDPR | Data processing agreement, EU hosting, no repurposing of guest data by the provider. |
No — good systems map your plan: you define which tables are bookable online and when, and how much stays free for walk-ins. The reservation book remains your tool, just digital.
Web-based systems with your own widget typically cost about €30–100 per month (flat fee). Beware models charging per seated guest — they scale against you.
Yes — for special requests, large groups and regulars. The goal is to automate the standard reservation so phone time remains for cases that really need personal attention.