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Why it's getting harder to get a table for a larger party at restaurants

Restaurants want your business, but large parties just aren't in their best interest.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Busy restaurants have a message for customers: Come dine with us, but leave your extra friends at home.

It's getting harder to get a table for six at your favorite restaurant. Let's connect the dots.

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Restaurants want your business, but large parties just aren't in their best interest. According to reservation platform Resy, groups of six or more made up only 8% of reservations in 2023. Meanwhile, tables for two made up over half of all reservations.

The Wall Street Journal reports that big parties out to eat put a lot on the kitchen and wait staff. With guests showing up at different times, it can slow service for your table, and the whole restaurant. Small parties, meanwhile, means easier turnover for wait staff.

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Smaller parties also mean much less strain on your favorite server. With staff shortages still plaguing many popular food spots, seating for two or four means workers can keep up with other tables and still keep you happy.

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