Online flexibility: the key to guest satisfaction
Over three-quarters (77%) of Dutch restaurant guests say it’s important to have control over their online reservations, whether it’s modifying or canceling them. This autonomy empowers diners and aligns with modern expectations of flexibility.
Moreover, almost nine out of ten (87%) restaurant guests are more inclined to reserve at a restaurant that offers an online booking system. This preference underscores the growing demand for tech-savvy hospitality solutions.
How are reservations managed?
When it comes to adjusting bookings, 62% of restaurant guests do so online - 46% via apps and 16% through the website they initially used. Meanwhile, 24% still prefer calling the restaurant, and only 10% resort to email. These habits highlight the convenience online booking platforms bring, but also the importance of keeping more traditional communication options open.
Interestingly, to reduce no-shows, 22% of restaurant owners have started requesting deposits at the time of booking. This practice balances customer autonomy with operational reliability.
Discovering restaurants in the digital era
When searching for a new dining spot, 76% of restaurant guests rely on recommendations from friends and family. Social media (68%) and Google (59%) follow closely as go-to resources, showcasing the influence of digital platforms in shaping dining choices.
Specialized culinary websites like Michelin and Gault&Millau are also popular, with one-third (34%) of diners using them. Additionally, websites like TripAdvisor are used by about 20%, proving that online visibility is more crucial than ever for restaurants.
The value of online reservation tools
As Edgar Rouwenhorst, CMO of Zenchef, notes:
“Online reservation tools not only provide guests with unmatched flexibility but also connect restaurants to a broader audience. It’s a win-win.”
Emine Youssef, Regional Director Benelux Hospitality at Lightspeed, echoes this sentiment, highlighting how integrated reservation systems reduce operational stress while offering invaluable customer insights.
Final thoughts
For modern restaurants, offering online reservations isn’t just a convenience - it’s a necessity. These systems enhance customer satisfaction, streamline operations, and open doors to a wider audience.
If your restaurant hasn’t embraced digital tools yet, now’s the time to consider them. After all, the future of dining starts with a seamless booking experience.
Curious about how Zenchef can transform your reservation process? Contact us for a free demo and join the thousands of restaurants already taking dining experiences to the next level.
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