Q&A for How to Book Restaurant Reservations

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What happens if we arrive late on our scheduled time?

Nicholas Di Paolo
Personal Chef
Nicholas Di Paolo is a Personal Chef based in Sedona, Arizona. With over 30 years of restaurant experience, Chef Nick has worked in esteemed restaurants including Manhattan’s Raoul’s Bistro and Las Vegas' Foundation Room. Chef Nick has been featured in various publications including Time Out Magazine, Seven, Mountain Living, and the local news in New York City, Las Vegas, and Flagstaff. Chef Nick's Italian-America upbringing is the foundation of his private culinary services. Chef Nick offers buffet-style catering, wedding catering, and standard family dinner menus for clients. He attended the New York Restaurant School.

Nicholas Di Paolo

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Expert Answer

When booking a reservation at a popular restaurant, it's important to consider their policy, as many establishments typically allow a 15-minute grace period. However, in busy restaurants with constant demand and a line of eager patrons waiting, the staff may need to seat those who have arrived on time to efficiently manage the high volume of customers.

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Question

Does it cost extra to book a reservation?

Community Answer

Never, however some places will charge you for not showing up for your reservation.

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Question

After confirming a reservation, can an upscale restaurant indicate what time we must leave?

Community Answer

Yes, but they ideally should tell you before you confirm your booking. If a restaurant is very busy they may have a policy where you have a certain amount of time before you have to leave so they can reset the table/tables for another group. Most restaurants don't do this, but it never hurts to ask their policy ahead of time.

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Question

What if I arrive ahead of schedule?

Community Answer

You reserved a table for a certain time, so they are running on preparing your table for that time. But, normally if they aren't jam-packed, or if your table is ready, they can squeeze you in. If they cannot accommodate you, sit at the bar if there is one, or go for a walk down the street and find a bar until it is time.

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Question

How many people can I have at a table in a restaurant?

Community Answer

That depends on the restaurant and the type of event you're holding. Call ahead to see if a restaurant can accommodate your party.

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Question

Can the concierge at the hotel reserve a table at a restaurant?

Amanda Cousins

Community Answer

It is often a special feature of the hotel for the concierge to reserve a table at your favorite restaurant or one you've recommended.

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Question

For a community formal dinner, is a reservation required?

Community Answer

It is very likely to be required.

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Question

Can you book reservations online for dining or do you have to call the restaurant?

Community Answer

You can do either.

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Question

What are some situations where you need to reserve a table at a restaurant?

Community Answer

For example, formal dinners, rehearsal dinners and large-group dinners.

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Question

Is the hostess the one you call to make dinner reservations?

Community Answer

Yes, the host/hostess or concierge.

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