Frequently asked questions
What is First Table?
First Table is a restaurant discovery website offering diners 50% off the food bill when they book the first table at one of our partner restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s the perfect incentive for diners to try new and exciting restaurants and they save money by dining early.
How does it work?
Our partner restaurants list their available first table for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner on our website. Diners can always see availability for the upcoming seven days. To secure a table, diners select a restaurant of their choice, the date and pay a booking fee of $8 to $12 to lock in 50% off the food bill for two, three or four people.
Are both food and drinks half price?
The First Table deal is strictly 50% off food only, drinks are always full price.
When is a new day added?
Availability for every restaurant is added just after midnight each night for the next seven days.
Where can I find a list of participating restaurants?
Visit our homepage and filter by region to find your nearest city. Once you’re there, you’ll find a range of delicious restaurants to choose from. You can also filter by the occasion (breakfast, lunch or dinner) and the type of cuisine. Hurry, the early bird gets the dinner deal!
What time can I book?
You’re welcome to book any available times listed on our website. The cut off time to make a restaurant booking is generally one hour prior to the seating time, however, this does vary from venue to venue according to their requirements.
How do I create an account?
You can sign up for a free First Table account at www.firsttable.com.au using a Facebook login or email address.
How many can I book for?
First Table reservations are for groups of two, three or four people including children of all ages.
Can I bring more than four people?
No, sorry. Our arrangement with restaurants is for reservations of two, three or four people only.
I’m a solo diner – can I dine on First Table?
While we love solo dining, unfortunately, our deal does not apply to tables of one.
Are there any exclusions?
Some restaurants have certain items that are unavailable for the First Table offer. These will be noted under 'special conditions' when you're making your booking and will be included on your booking confirmation.
How do I get my booking confirmation?
Your booking confirmation is emailed once payment has been finalised. If you cannot find your confirmation email simply log into your First Table account, select reservations and download your booking. Alternatively, check your email junk folder as sometimes first-time bookings can get lost.
What happens if I’m late?
The half-price food offer is only available for the date and time you’ve booked. If you’re more than 15 minutes late, the deal is off. This condition is there to ensure we’re creating a win-win environment where both diners AND restaurants enjoy clear benefits.
How do restaurants benefit?
Our concept is a real win-win for diners and restaurants – we bring people together to enjoy new dining experiences and support restaurateurs by getting their night off to a good start. Our partner restaurants use their first table as a promotional tool to attract new customers and fill (otherwise) empty tables.
How do I cancel or amend my reservation?
Please visit your reservations admin to cancel your booking or contact First Table to amend the number of diners for your booking. Refunds for cancellations are subject to our cancellation policy.
Can I book the same restaurant twice?
Absolutely but not twice in a row. First Table was built to encourage foodies to try new restaurants.
Can I pick which table to sit at?
The restaurant will most likely have a designated table for First Table diners.
Is the booking fee deducted from my bill?
The booking fee entitles you to receive 50% off the food bill when you make your reservation on our website. It is not deducted from the bill.
Can I use with other vouchers?
First Table vouchers cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or promotions, including restaurant credit unless otherwise specified by the restaurant.
Is there a minimum spend?
You may spend as much or as little as you like – your food bill will be discounted by 50% at the end of the meal.
How do I cancel or amend my reservation?
Please visit your reservations admin to cancel your booking or contact First Table to amend the number of diners for your booking. Refunds for cancellations are subject to our cancellation policy.
Can I take my food away?
Meals ordered are for dine-in only. Restaurants may allow you to take away leftovers, but to prevent over-ordering, this is at their own discretion.
Can I combine First Table bookings for large groups?
A maximum of one First Table may be booked per group per night. Booking two tables and combining is prohibited. If you wish to make a group reservation please contact the restaurant directly.
Do I need ID?
Licensed premises are within their rights to deny you service if you can't produce identification (even when not drinking). To avoid disappointment, please make sure all diners have their ID. Please note, First Table booking fees will not be refunded in this scenario.
Is First Table available on public holidays or over Christmas and New Year?
Restaurants have full control over the days and times that the offer is available. Availability on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day is extremely limited.
How do First Table gift vouchers work?
Grab as a gift for your favourite foodie or stock up on credit for yourself. It’s the food gift that keeps on giving! Head to our gift voucher page to buy or redeem a gift voucher.
Our gift vouchers are only redeemable on our website for First Table booking credit. They cannot be redeemed at our partner restaurants directly or be used as payment for your meal.
Gift vouchers are redeemable within 12 months of purchase for the equivalent value in First Table credit. See our gift voucher terms and conditions for more details.
What countries offer First Table?
At this time, First Table is operating in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK.
Who runs First Table?
Behind the scenes, we’re a passionate team of food lovers. It’s our job to help make dining out more of a routine than a luxury! Read our story here.
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