Cha Cha Tang

Restaurants Aren’t Really Charging People For Skipping Reservations Anymore | Eater NY

"John McDonald, an owner of multiple restaurants including a newly opened venue mentioned in the article, said, “We haven’t enforced it,” and, “I am not trying to make a successful business by charging people for cancellations.” He noted he can have up to 65 cancellations a night and explained the calculus behind leniency: “You’re playing a numbers game; it’s bad form to cancel or no-show, but it’s not worth risking ruining a relationship with a guest who can then talk trash about your restaurant.” The piece also points out that restaurants must deal with diners challenging fees via their banks, which costs time and money." - Andrea Strong