In tourist areas, many restaurants don’t take reservations.  However, they are strongly suggested for dinner shows and the more exclusive restaurants.  Find out if the restaurant that you plan to visit has a hot reputation.  If so, you may want to call as soon as you know your plans.  If you’re from out of town and you’ve heard a lot about a certain place, you’d better get your name on their reservations list quickly.

Ask about their price range.

What types of food do they specialize in ?

Is the lunch menu any different from the dinner menu ?

May I make a reservation ?

When is it less crowded ?

Is there a dress code or recommended dress ?

Do they offer any live entertainment ?

Are there special theme nights, such as Italian, Greek, pasta or seafood ?

Do they offer happy hour or early bird specials ?  What times are they available ?

Are there any exceptions or exclusions for coupons or discounts that you might want to use ?

Can they honor any special dietary requests ?

The day, date and time that you would like to dine.

The number of people in your party, including children.

The name to hold the reservation under.

Any special requests, such as smoking/nonsmoking, seating arrangements or special event celebrations.

Ask them to read back your information, to make sure that they got it right.

Confirm that they understand any special requests that you have made.

Get the name of the person taking the booking, in case there is a problem later.

Inquire as to their cancellation policy.  Many restaurants will charge a cancellation fee to your credit card if you don't cancel within a certain time frame.

Carefully check the coupon for its rules, exceptions and expiration.

Be sure that it will still be valid when you plan to use it.

Find out if there is a minimum purchase required.

Check for any invalid times or exemptions.

Don't forget to bring the coupon with you !

Tell the waiter that you are using a coupon when you order.