Built for restaurants, not for fees: Why Zenchef stays commission-free

Building Zenchef around restaurant success

From the very beginning, we made a deliberate choice: Zenchef would never charge restaurants commission on reservations. This principle is more than just a business decision—it’s the foundation of our DNA.

We believe restaurants deserve to own (A) their guest relationships, (B) their data, and most importantly, (C) their profits. While other platforms built their models around commission-heavy structures, we chose partnership over commissions. That means every reservation made through Zenchef stays commission-free, now and into the future.

In 2025 we’re doubling down on this commitment. Our message to restaurants is clear: we’re on your side, and we always will be.

What Zenchef offers today

While we’re continuously updating our platform, the foundation is already well-established. Here’s what Zenchef is already delivering today:

1. Complete control over reservations

Restaurants using Zenchef get direct, commission-free reservations through their own channels; website, Google, Instagram, and more. Our platform allows for customization, waitlist management, and real-time availability updates, giving restaurateurs full control over their guest flow.

2. Marketing and CRM tools built for hospitality

From our widget and automated email campaigns to smart guest segmentation, Zenchef equips restaurants with the kind of marketing power once reserved for big companies. Our tools are designed to be easy to use yet powerful enough to drive real guest retention and word-of-mouth.

3. Operational efficiency

We help restaurants go beyond spreadsheets. With centralized guest profiles, no-show reduction tools, and real-time performance dashboards, Zenchef acts as an extension of the team. Restaurant owners and managers like XX from XX call it "like having extra team members, " and we love that.

4. A human approach to tech

Even with all the automation, our human touch remains our edge. Whether it’s support, getting started with new features, or strategic advice, we pride ourselves on being there when restaurants need us most. Tech is only transformative when the human elements of trust and empathy back it.

Our promise for tomorrow

The future of dining is about more than just technology, it’s about experience, personalization, and freedom. In the coming months and years we’re not just building smarter tools; we’re fighting for a smarter industry. One where restaurants are cultural hubs, not just inventory on a platform. One where the relationship between guests and restaurants is celebrated.

We’re proud of how far we’ve come and even more excited about where we’re going. With over 25,000 restaurants already trusting Zenchef and many more to come, we remain committed to our promise:

No commissions. No compromises. Just better hospitality for everyone.