Google profile and website
The Book button where customers are looking.
By trade · 2026 edition
Online restaurant bookings: fill tables without burning out
Phone calls during service, empty tables, per-cover commissions: bookings take a heavy toll. Here is how to set up online booking that works for you.
- The options
- Card guarantees
- Reminders
Updated October 2026Rules checkedNo jargon
Online booking in 30 seconds
In short
A restaurant can take bookings online in three ways: through a booking platform, often paid per cover or by subscription; through a module on its own website linked to its Google profile; or through WhatsApp. The most effective setup: a Book button on the Google profile and the website, instant confirmation and a reminder the day before. A card guarantee is possible for large tables, provided the customer is informed beforehand.
Instant confirmation
The customer knows their table is booked.
Reminder the day before
Fewer empty tables during service.
One single booking sheet
Phone, website and WhatsApp in one place.
Three ways to take bookings
Each option has its advantages. Many restaurants combine two.
| Option | Advantages | Points to watch |
|---|---|---|
| Booking platform | Visibility with new customers, quick to set up | Per-cover commission or subscription, shared customer data |
| Module on your website | No per-cover commission, data you own, polished image | You need a fast website and a link from your Google profile |
| WhatsApp with guided replies | Easy for regulars, natural conversation | Must be linked to the booking sheet to avoid overbooking |
Card guarantees and cancellations: what is allowed
Asking for a guarantee is possible. But the customer must be clearly informed before booking.
Inform beforehand
The amount, per person or per table, and the free cancellation period must be shown before the card details are saved.
A reasonable amount
Keep it in proportion to the average price of a meal.
Balanced conditions
A term that only penalises the customer, with nothing in return if you cancel, may be considered unfair.
Secure payment
Never store card numbers yourself.
Customer data
Tell customers how it is used. No advertising without the required consent.
Set it up in five steps
The goal: fewer calls during service, fewer empty tables.
From a one-page site to a website that works for you
Choose the package that fits your business. The price is fixed in advance.
Simple Website · 1 page
A one-page website, simple and professional, to be present online.
- 1 mobile-friendly page
- Your copy and your logo
- WhatsApp button
- 1 round of changes included
- File delivered, ready to publish
Essential Website
For a small business that wants a serious website, fast.
- Up to 5 pages
- Copy written for you
- Basic SEO
- Contact form
- Publishing included
Multilingual Pro Website
To reach customers in several languages.
- 5 to 10 pages
- 2 or 3 languages
- Full SEO
- Form linked to a tracking spreadsheet
- WhatsApp button and direct contact
Website + Automations
For a website that works for you, day and night.
- Everything in the Multilingual Pro Website
- Quotes calculated and sent
- Orders recorded automatically
- Automatic invoices and reminders
Online Presence Pack
Everything you need to exist on Google, set up for you.
- Domain name in your name
- Professional email address
- Business Google account
- Your website registered with Google
Options, for every offer
- €29Domain name purchase and setup
- €49Going live on hosting
- €39Extra page with copywriting
- €59Translation, per language
- €19/monthWebsite monitoring and alerts
The website and the domain name are in your name. Simple Website: text and logo supplied by you, going live as an option. Indicative prices.
A calmer restaurant
Our restaurant automation solution brings bookings, confirmations, reminders and customer reviews together in one booking sheet, with no per-cover commission.
Bookings at any time
From the website, the Google profile or WhatsApp.
Confirmations and reminders
Sent automatically, with one-click cancellation.
Review request
A message after the meal to collect reviews.
One booking sheet
All bookings in one place, for every service.
Your questions, our answers
How do you set up online booking for a restaurant?
Choose a booking module, on your website or through a platform, link it to your Google profile with a Book button, and turn on automatic confirmation and reminders.
Can a restaurant ask for a card guarantee?
Yes, if the customer is told the amount, the conditions and the free cancellation period before booking. The amount must remain reasonable.
Can you charge for a no-show?
Only if the customer accepted these conditions before booking. An excessive penalty may be challenged and reduced.
How do you add a Book button on Google?
From your Google profile, by adding a booking link or through a compatible partner.
How do you reduce empty tables?
A reminder the day before, a simple cancellation link and a waiting list.
Sources: EU rules on unfair terms in consumer contracts · your country's rules on consumer information and contractual penalties · GDPR and guidance from your national data protection authority.
General information, up to date as of October 2026. It does not replace advice from a professional.
Free quote
What if we automated all this for you?
Tell us about your project. We study it in detail, then you receive a personalised study and a clear quote in writing, within 24 business hours. No meeting, no obligation.
What happens after your request
Or by email: contact@growthsystemexperts.com