With First Table, people can only book for 2-4 diners. It is a great idea to socialise your team with our terms & conditions as they are there to make First Table easy for you (the venue). The greater the understanding of the terms & conditions the better your staff will be equipped to push back on any diners trying to bend the rules.
We understand that sometimes diners arrive with more guests than initially booked. With First Table, managing these situations can be seamless and even beneficial. Here are a few tips on how to handle them:
Welcome additional guests: If space allows, seat the extra guest(s) while kindly pointing out the booking conditions clearly outlined in their booking email confirmation (the First Table offer is only valid for two-four people). Simply explain that the additional guest(s) will be required to pay full price. This can be a fantastic opportunity to boost your revenue from both drinks and full-priced food items, and it leaves the guests feeling welcome and happy, increasing the likelihood that they will return and recommend your venue to their friends.
Handle capacity issues gracefully: If accommodating extra diners isn't possible, politely remind them of your restaurant's special conditions. First Table's Special Conditions feature ensures expectations are clear during the booking process and listed on the booking confirmation.
Turn challenges into opportunities: Use this situation to deliver a memorable customer experience. Open communication, happy customers, and more filled seats contribute to great reviews, returning patrons, and increased revenue.
Equip your team: Make sure your staff are familiar with First Table’s T&Cs. The more they understand these terms, the better equipped they’ll be to handle any situation confidently and effectively.
An exception to the rule
First Table offers a feature called Four+More to include full-price bookings alongside First Table bookings. We built Four+More in response to feedback from our restaurant partners telling us that First Table bookings sometimes arrive with more than four diners.
Some restaurants are happy to accommodate additional full-price paying diners as it allows them to increase margins early on in the evening. On the other hand, some restaurants find additional diners problematic. We came up with a solution.
If you prefer to avoid additional diners altogether, just let us know, and we can add extra special conditions to your listing.
Useful blogs:
Enhancing dining harmony: First Table’s strategy for managing diner etiquette
Mastering First Table diner: effective strategies for restaurants