OpenTable

Every Christmas, my dad and I take a trip to NYC for a couple of days. He is always in charge of the plane tickets, the hotel reservations, the theater tickets, etc... while I am in charge of one thing – the restaurant reservations. Deciding on just 3 or 4 out of the thousands of fabulous restaurants in New York City is the hardest part. Actually making the reservations has been easy since I started using OpenTable a couple of years ago.

If you are not aware, OpenTable is a Web site that enables you to make your restaurant reservations online. You simply choose which restaurant, which date, what time you wish to eat, and how many people will be in your party. The site then shows you the available dining times and you simply confirm the reservation! OpenTable sends you reminder e-mails, which is helpful for me when planning this NY trip. It is easy to forget which day and which time each reservation is. You also accumulate points on OpenTable, and once you reach a certain level you may receive a gift card! The site also offers basic information and sample menus from the restaurants featured on the site.

Many restaurant's Web sites are now starting to direct those seeking reservations directly to OpenTable. If any restaurant that takes reservations is not on OpenTable, it should be! It is such a convenience for both parties.