OpenTable is a leading restaurant reservation tool accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Available as both a mobile app and a website, it simplifies the process of making reservations, finding available restaurants, and even paying for your meal. Regarded as one of the top iPhone apps, OpenTable excels as a comprehensive solution for managing and scheduling dining experiences.
To get started with OpenTable, users need to create an account using their email address and password. For those using Apple Pay with Touch ID-enabled devices, entering a credit card number is necessary to access specific services within OpenTable or Apple Pay itself. Mobile payments have been integrated, allowing iPhone users to settle their bills directly from their phones, enhancing convenience and security.
With OpenTable, users can search for restaurants in their local area or in specific cities, refining their search based on neighborhood, price, user ratings, cuisine, and other factors. Although the filtering options are robust, there can occasionally be issues with the geolocation feature. Users select the day, time, and number of guests before finalizing their reservation. If the desired time slot is unavailable, OpenTable suggests alternative times in 15-minute increments and continues to search for availability in the following hours or days.
The app also maintains a history of table reservations, making it easier to revisit favorite dining spots or recall previous visits. Users can manage their reservations by adjusting the size, time, or date of their party directly through the app.
A standout feature of OpenTable is its integration with mobile payments, allowing iPhone users to pay for their meal via their phone at the end of the dining experience. Users have the option to save their credit card information securely within the app or use Apple Pay, offering a safer alternative to handing over a physical card. The app also supports scanning or manually entering credit card information.
After payment, customers at participating restaurants can choose between receiving push notifications or text messages, with options adjustable in the app’s settings. Another notable feature is the ability to earn points for future restaurant expenses, a modern upgrade from the previous paper vouchers. This allows users to apply credits seamlessly through mobile payments.
By eliminating the need for phone calls to make reservations, OpenTable streamlines the dining experience. Its mobile payment capabilities are accessible to a wide range of users, not just those with the latest iPhones, making it a valuable tool for anyone who dines out frequently.
Download OpenTable for free here.
