OpenTable GuestCenter

What OpenTable GuestCenter is

OpenTable GuestCenter is a restaurant management platform for attracting diners, managing a restaurant’s reputation, coordinating operations, and encouraging repeat visits. Its three plans build from diner-network and reputation tools in Basic to seating and table-status automation in Core, then guest relationship management and targeted marketing in Pro. Depending on plan, reservation features include booking integrations across more than 100 sites and apps, customizable floor plans, Smart Assign, inventory controls, waitlists, and automated reservation messages. Pro also includes guest profiles, automated email campaigns and guest tags, and post-dining surveys. OpenTable says the platform connects with restaurant software such as point-of-sale systems and email providers. Its restaurant manager app for iPhone and Android can display reservation activity, cover trends, and VIP notifications; GuestCenter is also available on the web. OpenTable advertises customer support around the clock, along with setup and training. Basic is $149 a month, Core is $299 a month, and Pro is $499 a month. Basic is available only in the US and includes a 30-day trial. The standard contract lasts one year and renews annually unless notice is given 30 days before renewal.

Who it suits

GuestCenter is aimed at restaurants, restaurant groups, and enterprise operators, as well as bars, wineries, hotels, and casinos. Basic suits operators seeking diner-network and reputation tools; Core and Pro add progressively more seating automation and guest marketing capabilities.

Limits

Basic is available only in the US and is free for 30 days before a $1.50 per network cover fee applies. Basic website reservations cost $0.25 per cover or $49 per month for a flat fee; prepaid experiences and ticketing carry a 2% service fee. Core and Pro charge $1 per network cover, include website reservations, and charge a 2% service fee for prepaid experiences and ticketing.

Getting started

1. Visit the OpenTable GuestCenter website.
2. Choose Basic, Core, or Pro based on the listed tools and fees.
3. Use the 30-day trial available with Basic, or select a paid plan.
4. Access the service on the web or use the restaurant manager app on iPhone or Android.
5. Contact OpenTable for setup and training support.

Verdict

Restaurants that want booking, floor, and guest-management tools in one service can consider GuestCenter, choosing a plan based on the automation and marketing tools they need. Look elsewhere if you need Basic outside the US or do not want a one-year contract.