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Why I Love OpenTable

I’m a huge fan of OpenTable, for so many reasons. You can search for a specific restaurant to make a reservation, or key in an area to find restaurants that have availability for a specific day and time. You can also tailor your search by price and cuisine, and get a preview of special offers around specific holidays.

For sales people meeting with clients for business lunch or dinner meetings, this makes it so much easier to ensure that the client receives all the information they need prior to the meeting. Once you book the reservation, a confirmation is sent to your email and you can then just forward the details to the client.

I use the OpenTable app all the time and it’s great for finding those unique restaurants that you may not know existed. When I was in Toronto for a speaking engagement I was planning lunch with a friend who I know liked interesting experiences. I checked OpenTable and found a chocolate and tea place nearby. And what a cool place it turned out to be! The restaurant was decorated in a modern style, but with a twist. On the walls was a collection of beautiful antique teapots and the glass display case was filled with Technicolor macarons and other delectable goodies!

If you’re trying to make an impression, or want to share a unique dining experience with a friend or a client, OpenTable saves you time and allows you to discover hidden dining treasures. It takes going to a restaurant out of the realm of something you “need” to do and makes it much more delightful.

OpenTable is also testing out another feature that I think will be a huge hit with diners. They recently launched a pilot program in San Francisco that enables you to pay your bill via the OpenTable iPhone app. After you book your reservation you’re asked if you’d like to pay for your meal using the app. If you agree, you simply scan your credit card using the app and your card remains on file. At the end of your meal, just open the app to see your bill. This new feature takes the guesswork out of how much to tip, as well. Just tap a button for 15 percent, 20 percent, or higher – and you’re done. A receipt is then sent to you so you can keep it for your records.

Another benefit? You can earn dining rewards points when you make (and honor) reservations made through OpenTable. Get paid to dine out? Now that’s pretty cool!

Of note: It’s even more important than ever to keep the reservations you’ve booked through OpenTable – or cancel them if your plans change. If you rack up “no-show,” your account will be banned.

Posted by Margaret in Business Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged dining etiquette, OpenTable.