I remember the days of calling restaurants, hoping for a table, only to be met with a “we’re fully booked” response. It was a frustrating experience that made me wonder, “Why can’t there be a simpler way to reserve a table?”
That’s when I discovered OpenTable. It revolutionized the way we dine out by providing a convenient platform to find, book, and manage restaurant reservations. The app’s success inspired me to explore the possibility develop an app like opentable for restaurant table booking.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of developing your own restaurant table-booking app, covering everything from the initial concept to the final launch.
So, let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
An Overview of OpenTable Restaurant App
OpenTable, founded in 1998 is one of the early reservation systems in San Francisco. After 16 years of operation, Priceline Group purchased it in 2014 for an astounding $2.6 billion. App like OpenTable enables restaurants to subscribe to one of their plans to accept reservations online. There are basically three plans available –
- Basic (£19 per month)
- Core (£179 per month)
- Pro (£299 per month)
Currently, more than 31 million people are using OpenTable restaurant reservation app monthly. The app enable restaurants to connect directly with each of their diners via direct messaging services. Its hype has raised the demand for mobile application development company that build restaurant table booking software.
Application Name |
OpenTable App |
CEO |
Debby Soo |
Launch Year |
1998 |
Founders |
Sid Gorham, Eric Moe, & Chuck Templeton |
Restaurants Registered |
52000+ |
Top Competitors |
Yelp Reservations, SevenRooms, ResyOS |
Platforms |
Android, iOS |
Revenue |
$100 – $500 million |
Entrepreneurs Develop An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking
Before we discuss the process to develop an app like OpenTable for restaurant table booking, I would like you to learn more about its benefits. In this section, I have covered an intellectual section that offers some incredible reasons to invest in OpenTable restaurant reservation app development.
1. Unmet Market Need
Convenient reservations at eating places are in excessive call for. Restaurant booking apps like Open Table are often challenging to discover tables, specifically at some stage in busy meal times.
This requirement is met through the OpenTable restaurant reservation app, which gives customers a single platform to locate, make, and manage reservations quickly.
2. Increased Revenue For Restaurants
Through an OpenTable app development partnership, eateries can decorate their client base and raise their profits. By optimizing table rotation and reducing the number of no-shows, a restaurant booking app like Open Table assists businesses in dealing with their tables efficaciously.
Increased sales and profitability are observed from this. You can invest in restaurant table booking app development by connecting with prominent iOS app development services providers.
3. Improved Client Experience
The OpenTable app offers an easy and sensible user experience. With just a few clicks, shoppers can quickly browse for available eating places, confirm their schedules, and make reservations, boosting customer loyalty and delight.
4. Valuable Data Insights
OpenTable app development gathers statistics on customer alternatives, eating exercises, and reservation trends. Restaurants can use this data to research essential matters about their business. They may also use this data to improve their marketing initiatives, alter their pricing plans, and optimize their menu choices.
5. High Potential Return on Investment
Opentable app development and other packages are terrific at taking advantage of the constantly increasing eating place reservation quarter. Hybrid app development has a considerable person base, everyday revenue streams, and room to grow into new areas, which draws in traders who see potential for large returns on funding (ROI).
10 Popular Apps Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking
In this table, we have covered some amazing restaurant booking apps like OpenTable with their downloads and many other factors that you must learn about to get that app added to competitor search.
App Name |
Downloads |
Ratings |
Launch Year |
Available Platforms |
OpenTable |
100M+ |
4.5 |
1998 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Resy |
10M+ |
4.7 |
2014 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Yelp |
1B+ |
4.4 |
2004 |
iOS, Android, Web |
TripAdvisor |
500M+ |
4.3 |
2000 |
iOS, Android, Web |
SeatGuru |
10M+ |
4.6 |
2006 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Dineout |
10M+ |
4.4 |
2005 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Chope |
10M+ |
4.5 |
2011 |
iOS, Android, Web |
TableAgent |
1M+ |
4.3 |
2013 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Reserve |
1M+ |
4.5 |
2014 |
iOS, Android, Web |
Grubhub |
100M+ |
4.2 |
2004 |
iOS, Android, Web |
7 Steps to Develop An App Like OpenTable Restaurant Reservation App
Are you planning to develop an app like OpenTable? Before you proceed, it is essential to know the seven steps involved in the restaurant table booking app development. So, let’s understand each step one by one.
#Step 1 – Conduct Market Research & Competitor Analysis
The foremost step to developing any mobile app is conducting market research and competitor analysis. So, take your time, and dig deeper to know everything about ‘How to make a table booking app?’ You can also refer to a well-known food delivery app like Talabat, as it will help you build a successful application.
#Step 2 – Decide App Features & Functionalities
Once you complete the research process of the OpenTable restaurant table booking app, move to the next step. Here, you must decide the key features and functionalities to build an app like OpenTable.
Embedding unique features is a must to make an application competitive and profitable. Also, ensure to keep the OpenTable app functionalities simple, as none of the users will prefer to use a complex application. You can get a detailed insight into the cost and features to develop restaurant searching app for better understanding.
#Step 3 – Check App’s Compatibility with OS
It is not essential that every application be compatible with all operating systems. Therefore, checking your OpenTable app compatibility with all types of OS is mandatory. In addition, an app like OpenTable is available for both Android & iOS users, so you can develop an app for both platforms.
Also, if your restaurant table booking app is compatible with other OS like Linux and windows other than Android & iOS, it will create more impact.
#Step 4 – Design App User Interface
OpenTable restaurant reservation application works on the algorithm of convincing users to book their tables. That means the UI of such applications should be appealing enough to grab the users’ attention. This development step will also decide the cost to develop table booking app, so decide the design of an app accordingly.
If you find the process difficult, get in touch with on-demand app development services professionals who can help you with design and development.
#Step 5 – Begin OpenTable App Development
Finally, you can begin the actual process to develop an app like the OpenTable restaurant booking app. All the information and data gathered in the previous stages will be useful. Now, it is time to turn your business idea into reality by integrating all the crucial parts of the application, like front-end, back-end, and API.
To achieve perfection in developing an app like OpenTable, you can hire dedicated app developer. The experts will help you build a successful application for your restaurant business. So, either you should have a team of developers or outsource your project to the experts.
#Step 6 – Test & Launch the App
When you complete the entire development process, conduct in-depth testing to remove all the errors and bugs before the final launch. You must have a team of skilled quality analysts who can scan the application from every aspect and eliminate all the major and minor flaws in the app, like OpenTable.
Finally, launch your restaurant reservation app on the desired platform when you are done with the testing process. And guess what? You are done!
#Step 7 – Market the Application
It is an additional step suggested by the food delivery app development company professionals. Simply developing an application isn’t enough if it is not marketed properly, as your business application won’t be able to gain market traction. So, you should also avail digital marketing services right after the development of the OpenTable application.
It is all about the process to build an app like OpenTable. Now that you are well-versed in the development process, it is your turn to implement the steps and develop a perfect restaurant reservation application.
Unique and Must-Have Features of Apps Like OpenTable for Restaurant Table Booking
If you have learned how to develop an app like OpenTable, now is the time to learn its features. Yes, you heard it right. For every on-demand restaurant, the mobile app development feature plays the most important role in making it successful and engaging.
Features |
Descriptions |
Real-time Availability |
Instantly view available tables at restaurants, even during peak dining hours. |
Advanced Filtering |
Filter restaurants by cuisine, price range, location, and dietary restrictions. |
Group Reservations |
Easily make reservations for large parties. |
Virtual Waitlist |
Join a virtual waitlist and receive notifications when a table becomes available. |
Loyalty Programs |
Reward frequent diners with points, discounts, or exclusive offers. |
Table Management |
Allow restaurants to manage reservations, seating, and waitlists efficiently. |
Customer Reviews and Ratings |
Enable customers to share their dining experiences and help others make informed decisions. |
Integration with Online Ordering |
Allow customers to order food directly through the opentable restaurant app, either for pickup or delivery. |
Personalized Recommendations |
Suggest restaurants based on users’ past preferences and dining habits. |
Integration with Payment Gateways |
Offer seamless payment options within the restaurant reservation app like open table. |
Social Media Integration |
Allow users to share their reservations and dining experiences on social media. |
Push Notifications |
Send reminders for upcoming reservations, special offers, or new restaurant additions. |
Accessibility Features |
Ensure the opentable restaurant app is accessible to users with disabilities. |
Gamification Elements |
Incorporate fun elements like badges, challenges, or leaderboards to engage users. |
Integration with Other Apps |
Partner with other apps (e.g., Uber, Lyft) to provide transportation options to and from restaurants. |
How Much Does It Cost to Develop an App Like OpenTable for Restaurant Table Booking?
The cost to develop an app like OpenTable starts from $8,000 to $27,000. However depending on some variables, the cost to build an app like OpenTable can range significantly.
Here are numerous significant variables that affect the mobile app development cost; it’s tough to present an accurate quantity without knowing the specifics of the app:
1. App Complexity:
The amount of features, integrations, and customization wanted may have a direct effect on how long it takes to design an app and what kind it costs to build an app like OpenTable. Compared to complicated software with sophisticated abilities, an easy app with simple functions will cost less.
App Complexity |
Cost Range (USD) |
Basic | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Enhanced | $4,000 – $7,000 |
Advanced | $7,000 – $9,000 |
Premium | $10,000 + |
2. Platform Selection:
Creating apps for each iOS and Android calls for extraordinary improvement teams and codebases, which drives up cost to build an app like OpenTable.
Platform Choice |
Cost Range (USD) |
iOS Only | $27,000 |
Android Only | $23,000 |
iOS and Android | $30,000 |
3. Design and User Experience (UX):
A properly user -friendly user interface can expand the app’s usability and user base. Nevertheless, generating an advanced design might increase the cost to build an app like OpenTable and require highly qualified designers.
Design and UX |
Cost Range (USD) |
Basic | $1,000 – $3,000 |
Enhanced | $3,000 – $6,000 |
Advanced | $6,000 – $8,000 |
Premium | $8,000+ |
4. Development Team:
The cost to create an app like OpenTable may be substantially impacted by the full-stack development company’s experience and location. Although dedicated deelopers in less expensive areas could rate less, it’s crucial to ensure the restaurant table booking app development company has the desired education and experience.
Development Team |
Cost Range (USD) |
Small (1-2 developers) | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Medium (3-5 developers) | $12,000 – $18,000 |
Large (5+ developers) | $18,000 – $25,000 |
Premium (Specialized team) | $25,000 – $100,000 |
5. Backend Development:
The overall performance and scalability of this system are substantially inspired by way of the backend infrastructure, which includes servers, databases, and APIs. The backend system’s complexity will affect on the time and cost to develop an app like opentable for restaurant table booking.
Backend Development Complexity |
Cost Range |
Basic Backend Development (Simple Cart, Payment System) | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Intermediate Backend (Advanced Cart, Secure Payment System, Database) | $12,000 – $20,000 |
Advanced Backend (Custom Server Integration, High Security) | $20,000 – $30,000 |
6. Ongoing Maintenance and Updates:
After the program is launched, regular maintenance, updates, and bug fixes will be needed to ensure its security and operation. The total cost to maintain an app must account for these expenses.
Maintenance Level |
Cost Range |
Basic Maintenance (Updates, Security Patches) | $1,000 – $5,000/year |
Intermediate Maintenance (Minor Feature Updates, Bug Fixes) | $5,000 – $8,000/year |
Full Maintenance (Continuous Support, Feature Enhancements) | $8,000 – $12,000/year |
7. Extra Functionalities and Integrations:
The time and OpenTable app development cost will go up if you need to encompass other functions like loyalty packages, online ordering, or platform connections.
Third-Party Integrations |
Cost Range (USD) |
Basic | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Enhanced | $4,000 – $7,000 |
Advanced | $7,000 – $10,000 |
Premium | $10,000+ |
To sum up, the cost to develop an app like OpenTable may vary from $8000 to $27000. Connecting with a leading mobile app development company can help you obtain a more accurate estimate of the OpenTable app development cost.
OpenTable Business Model: How Does OpenTable App Makes Money?
OpenTable is a restaurant reservation platform that allows diners to book tables at restaurants and helps restaurants manage their reservations. The following is the business model or revenue model of the OpenTable restaurant table booking app.
1. Reservation Fees
OpenTable charges restaurants a fee for each reservation made through its platform. The fee can vary depending on the restaurant’s location and the time of day. In some cases, restaurants may pay a higher fee for reservations made during peak hours or on popular days.
2. Subscription
OpenTable offers premium subscription services to restaurants that want additional features and functionality, such as custom floor plans, automated waitlists, and targeted marketing campaigns. These services come at a monthly or annual fee.
3. Advertising & Marketing
OpenTable allows restaurants to promote their business through paid advertising and email marketing campaigns. Restaurants can pay for increased visibility on the OpenTable app, and website or purchase targeted email campaigns to reach potential customers.
4. Data Insights
OpenTable collects and analyzes data from its platform, including diner preferences and behaviour, and provides this information to restaurants for a fee. Restaurants can use this data to understand their customers better and make informed decisions about menu offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies.
Overall, OpenTable’s revenue model is based on charging fees to restaurants for access to its platform and services and offering advertising and data insights to help restaurants improve their business.
Tech Stack For OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking Development
Here area curated list of some incredible technology stacks utilized by Android app development services providers to develop an app likeOpenTablee for restaurant table booking.
Component |
Technologies |
Frontend | React Native, Flutter, Swift, Kotlin |
Backend |
Node.js, Java (Spring Boot) Python (Django/Flask), |
API Integration | GraphQL, RESTful APIs, SOAP |
Database | SQLite, PostgreSQL,MySQL, MongoDB, Firebase |
Analytics | Google Analytics, Firebase Analytics |
Authentication | OAuth, JWT |
Push Notifications | Apple Push Notification Service, Firebase Cloud Messaging |
Version Control | Git, GitHub, Bitbucket |
Deployment | Apple App Store, Google Play Store, TestFlight, Firebase App Distribution |
The Wait is Over!
Developing an app like OpenTable requires a deep understanding of the restaurant industry and a restaurant app development company. At Dev Technosys, with over 14 years of experience, we specialize in creating innovative and user-friendly restaurant reservation apps.
Our custom app development company can help you build a successful app that meets the needs of both restaurants and customers. Contact us today to discuss your restaurant app development solutions uae and learn more about how we can assist you in develop a cutting-edge app like OpenTable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Much Does It Cost to Develop An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
The cost to develop an app like OpenTable for restaurant table booking varies from $8,000 to $27,000. However, the cost depends on multiple factors, including features, platform, OpenTable app development company, and more.
2. How Long Does It Take To Develop An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
- Basic MVP takes 3-6 months
- More complex versions with integrations take 6-12 months
- The timeline includes planning, the process to develop a restaurant reservation app, and testing
- Custom features may extend the development time
3. What Are The Benefits To Develop An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
- Enhances customer experience with easy reservations
- Boosts restaurant efficiency and occupancy
- Increases brand loyalty with seamless booking
- Provides valuable data insights and analytics for decision-making
4. Why You Should Choose Us To Develop An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
- Proven expertise in restaurant app development
- Customized solutions tailored to your needs
- Strong focus on performance and user experience
- Post-development support and maintenance services
5. How Can You Monetize An App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
- Charge restaurants a commission per booking
- Premium features for restaurants, like promotional tools
- Subscription fees for enhanced listings or analytics
- Advertisements and sponsored listings on the app
6. How Much Will It Cost To Maintain Your App Like OpenTable For Restaurant Table Booking?
- Estimated 15-20% of OpenTable app development cost per year
- Regular updates for new features and bug fixes
- Security patches and server maintenance
- Hosting and cloud storage expenses