I think it's a good idea in these challenging times for restaurants, especially for smaller, independent places.
Between supply chain issues, rapidly rising food costs, and the pandemic cutting into business, people have to quit skipping on reservations.
Edmonton restaurants hope to deter last-minute cancellations with new deposit-to-dine policy
https://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/edmonton...licy-1.5709726
Some Edmonton restaurants are requiring deposits when making a reservation due to the pandemic and supply chain issues.
o-owner of RGE RD Caitlin Fulton introduced a small fee of $10 per person to their online reservation site in an attempt to deter people from not showing up.
"It's not about recouping a financial loss. It's not about introducing a financial penalty, even. It is just about introducing a way that reminds people that they're committed to the table," Deposits are refunded for cancellations if enough notice is given.
Paying a deposit when making a dinner reservation may feel like a new concept, but Thomson said it's often used for other personal services like nail and hair appointments, and even hotel bookings to protect the business from taking a financial hit.
"This isn't a money grab. This is definitely something they need to do to ensure their livelihood."