A Fancy Credit Card Is Becoming the Only Way to Get a Restaurant Reservation
Credit cards like American Express prioritize Platinum cardholders for restaurant reservations through apps like Resy and Tock. Other companies like JPMorgan Chase and Capital One are also entering the reservation market. The commercialization of reservations leads to exclusive access fees, but some restaurants still reserve tables for walk-ins.
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In a world where securing a restaurant reservation has become a fierce competition, having the right credit card may be the key to success. Apps like Resy, Tock, and others offer access to top dining spots, but tables at sought-after restaurants vanish within minutes, possibly due to bots or scalpers. American Express, through its ownership of Resy and recent acquisition of Tock, prioritizes Platinum cardholders for reservations, creating a tiered system favoring elite customers. Other credit card companies like JPMorgan Chase and Capital One are also capitalizing on the reservation market. The commercialization of reservations has led to annual fees for exclusive access, reminiscent of airport lounge privileges. Despite the allure of using a credit card as a reservation "cheat code," the saturation of reservation platforms risks excluding even high-paying customers. The phenomenon extends beyond dining, reflecting a broader trend of digital arbitrage in various aspects of life. Amidst the reservation chaos, some restaurants like Bungalow still reserve tables for walk-ins, offering a respite from the reservation wars.
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4 commentsOh, no. It's so unjust it's hard to get a reservation there!
This post has serious American psycho vibes:
"Hey Paul! Try Getting A Reservation At Dorsia Now!"
Where Dorsia symbolizes the obsession with status and elitism.
The cynical framing that comes to mind is "Anti-competitive practices via vertical integration."
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