The Feed 153- Using GenAI for reservations with Sagar Mehta of OpenTable
Aug 4, 2025
Sagar Mehta, the Chief Technology Officer of OpenTable, shares insights on the evolving landscape of restaurant reservations and the innovative use of generative AI. He discusses how OpenTable’s AI Concierge function enhances diner experiences by answering common queries and boosting bookings. Sagar also explores the integration of AI in private dining and cooking classes, alongside partnerships with giants like Uber. The conversation emphasizes the potential for personalized dining experiences, transforming how restaurants operate.
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AI As The Next Platform
- OpenTable treats AI as the next platform to create efficiencies for restaurants and diners.
- They apply AI across discovery, review responses, configuration, and 24/7 phone pickup to boost revenue and operations.
Use Marketplace And SaaS Together
- Use both marketplace and SaaS approaches because they solve different diner needs and restaurant goals.
- Share guest data back to restaurants so they can turn first-time diners into regulars.
Concierge Converts Browsers To Bookers
- AI Concierge answers recurring pre-booking questions to convert browsers into bookers.
- The long-term goal is conversational discovery that understands context and personal constraints.