As we dive into the evolving world of restaurant technology, I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned hospitality expert with deep roots in travel, tourism, entertainment, and events. With her extensive experience and passion for industry innovation, Katarina offers a unique perspective on how tech is reshaping dining experiences. Today, we’re exploring a groundbreaking development in group and private dining through a new all-in-one marketplace that promises to streamline bookings for diners and boost revenue for restaurants. Our conversation touches on the challenges of traditional booking processes, the transformative features of this platform, and the shifting preferences of consumers who are eager to celebrate in style.
How did the idea for an all-in-one marketplace for private and group dining come about, and what gaps in the industry did it aim to address?
The inspiration came from recognizing a persistent pain point in the industry. Booking private or group dining spaces has long been a cumbersome process involving endless online searches, back-and-forth emails, and phone calls. Both diners and restaurants were frustrated by the lack of a centralized, efficient solution. We saw an opportunity to create a platform that simplifies this journey, turning a fragmented experience into something seamless. It’s about saving time for diners and helping restaurants tap into a revenue stream that’s often underutilized due to logistical hurdles.
What are some of the biggest obstacles diners face when trying to book a venue for a large gathering, and how does this platform tackle those issues?
One major obstacle is the sheer time investment—our research showed it takes an average of 17 hours to secure a venue. Diners often struggle with finding reliable information about availability, pricing, or even the vibe of a space. Then there’s the coordination of communicating with multiple venues to compare options. This marketplace addresses that by providing a single hub where users can browse detailed listings, see transparent pricing, menus, and imagery, and filter based on their needs. It cuts down the guesswork and streamlines the decision-making process significantly.
Can you walk us through the city discovery page and how it helps diners find the perfect spot for their event?
Absolutely. The city discovery page is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly. Diners can explore a curated selection of private dining rooms, semi-private spaces, and large group tables in their chosen city. They can filter by capacity, ambiance, or specific cuisines, and get a clear view of what each venue offers through detailed descriptions and photos. It’s like having a personal planner at your fingertips, helping you compare options side by side without hopping between websites or making endless calls.
With instant booking now available at select venues, how does real-time availability change the game for diners planning an event?
Instant booking is a game-changer because it eliminates the waiting game. With real-time availability, diners can see exactly when a space is open and secure their reservation in just a few clicks, sometimes within seconds. It’s particularly helpful for those planning last-minute gatherings or working under tight deadlines. Right now, a growing number of venues offer this feature, and we’re actively working to expand it globally to make the process even more frictionless.
How does this marketplace create new opportunities for restaurants to grow their business, especially with underused spaces?
For restaurants, the platform is a powerful tool to attract large bookings that might otherwise slip through the cracks. Many establishments have private dining areas or larger tables that go unused because they’re not effectively marketed. Our marketplace generates targeted leads for these spaces, connecting restaurants directly with diners looking for group experiences. Plus, the setup process is straightforward, and we provide tools to manage bookings efficiently, so restaurants can focus on delivering great experiences while maximizing revenue.
Your research showed that nearly three-quarters of people prefer hosting group dinners at restaurants rather than at home. What do you think drives that preference?
I think it comes down to convenience and the desire for a memorable experience. Hosting at home involves a lot of prep—cooking, cleaning, and decorating—whereas a restaurant takes care of all that. Plus, restaurants offer a curated ambiance, whether it’s a cozy private room or a vibrant dining area, that’s hard to replicate at home. People are looking for that special touch for birthdays, corporate events, or family gatherings, and restaurants provide a hassle-free way to make those moments stand out.
With over two-thirds of respondents willing to spend more per person for private or group dining, how does this trend impact the way restaurants approach these bookings?
This willingness to spend more signals a huge opportunity for restaurants. It shows that diners value the experience of private or group dining and are ready to invest in it for the right setting and service. For restaurants, it means they can focus on crafting premium offerings—think customized menus, exclusive spaces, or added perks—that justify the higher spend. This platform helps them showcase those unique features to attract diners who are prioritizing quality and are prepared to pay for it.
What is your forecast for the future of group and private dining as technology continues to shape the hospitality industry?
I believe we’re just at the beginning of a major shift. As technology like this marketplace becomes more integrated into how we plan and experience dining, I expect group and private dining to grow significantly. We’ll see even more personalization—think AI-driven recommendations for venues or menus tailored to specific events. For restaurants, tech will continue to unlock ways to optimize spaces and connect with diners in real time. Ultimately, the focus will be on creating effortless, memorable experiences that make every gathering feel extraordinary, and platforms like ours will be central to that evolution.
