Why is First Table changing from 7-day to 14-day availability?

Below are the key benefits of the change.

1. Capture bookings you may currently be missing

Many diners plan their meals more than a week in advance. Previously, diners could only book 7 days ahead on First Table, meaning some potential bookings were missed.

By extending availability to 14 days, restaurants can capture these earlier planners instead of losing them to other booking options. 

2. Higher-value bookings

Bookings made further in advance are often planned occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or group dinners.

These diners typically spend more on food and beverages, helping restaurants generate greater value from early seatings.

3. Improved operational planning

With bookings visible up to two weeks in advance, restaurants can gain earlier insight into upcoming demand.

This can make it easier to plan:

• Staffing

• Food preparation

• Stock ordering

Earlier visibility reduces the need to manage most bookings within the final few days.

4. You remain in control of your availability

Restaurants continue to have full control over their schedules.

You can still:

• Add, edit, or remove blockouts

• Update your weekly availability

• Manage bookings through your reservation system integration

The only difference is that availability is now visible up to 14 days ahead, so it’s important to plan slightly further in advance.

5. Increased visibility on the platform

A longer booking window means your availability appears in more search results and date selections on First Table.

This increases the likelihood that diners will discover and book your First Table slot, helping reduce the chances of tables going unfilled.