Understanding OpenTable's Credit Card Hold and Cancellation Policies

OpenTable itself does not typically place credit card holds; rather, it's the individual restaurant's policy, facilitated through the OpenTable platform, that dictates if and when a hold or cancellation fee applies. These policies are primarily in place to deter no-shows and late cancellations, which can significantly impact a restaurant's revenue, especially for high-demand tables or tasting menus.

Here's how it generally works:

1. When a Hold May Occur: Restaurants, particularly those with limited seating, high demand, or special events (like tasting menus, holidays, or large parties), may require a credit card to secure a reservation. This is often a pre-authorization (a temporary hold) on your card, not an actual charge.
2. Purpose of the Hold: The hold ensures that funds are available if a cancellation fee needs to be applied. It's a way for the restaurant to mitigate losses from empty tables due to no-shows or last-minute changes.
3. Cancellation Fees: If you cancel outside the restaurant's specified cancellation window (e.g., within 24 or 48 hours of the reservation) or fail to show up, the restaurant may charge a pre-determined fee to your card. This fee amount is set by the restaurant and is usually clearly stated when you make the reservation.
4. Hold Release: If you honor your reservation or cancel within the allowed timeframe, the pre-authorization hold is typically released automatically. The time it takes for the hold to disappear from your statement can vary by your bank, usually 3-7 business days.
5. How to Check the Policy: The specific credit card policy, including any potential fees and cancellation windows, will be clearly displayed on the OpenTable reservation page for that particular restaurant before you confirm your booking. Always review these terms carefully.

Pro tip: Always confirm the restaurant's specific cancellation policy when booking, especially for special occasions or larger groups. If your plans change, cancel as soon as possible to avoid fees. If you're running late, call the restaurant directly; many will hold your table for a short grace period (e.g., 15 minutes) before marking you as a no-show.