Deposits, pre-orders and charges

For high-demand services, events, large parties, or any slot where no-shows cost you covers. Pre-orders suit set menus and occasions where the kitchen needs to prepare ahead.

A booking type uses one of two protections, never both. A deposit is taken at the time of booking and can be redeemed or refunded against your rules. A cancellation charge authorises the card at booking and is only taken if the guest cancels late or does not show.

Either can be a flat rate or per cover, with a minimum party size that triggers it and a free-cancellation window before the booking. A deposit can be split into a payment now and a balance due closer to the date, and where payment is not made in time an auto-cancel policy can release the table. The team can also take a deposit or charge manually against a booking, and payment reminders chase an unpaid balance.

For pre-orders, attach one or more menus to a booking type. Guests choose dishes during booking, the order is captured against the booking, and the kitchen sees it ahead of service. Optional upgrades let guests add extras such as a bottle on arrival. Deposit and charge payments run through your connected Stripe or Square account; guest pre-order payments run through Stripe.

• A booking type uses a deposit or a cancellation charge, not both.

• A no-show can trigger the cancellation charge, following the rules you set.

See also:

• Booking types and events

• Floor plan, tables and the diary

• How it works