AI agents compete with humans for tables

Online restaurant bookings are harder to get as AI agents monitor systems for last-minute cancellations and new table drops.

Booking platforms ban automated systems

OpenTable and Resy include terms stating automated systems can't secure bookings, noting they'll take action against accounts engaging in reservation scalping.

OpenTable adds liability disclaimer

OpenTable says it takes no responsibility for actions taken by AI agents on behalf of users, a change added to its terms in mid-2025.

“takes no responsibility and assumes no liability for actions taken by an AI agent on behalf of a user”

Resy bans bot-like behavior

Resy, owned by American Express, bans users who overstretch its service and exhibit bot-like behavior, including AI agents.

AI agent causes system overload

Brian Distelburger's AI agent hit Resy 200 times per hour, leading to a month-long suspension before reinstatement.

“a personal AI agent named Hannah that runs my life”

Resy suspends accounts for excessive requests

Resy suspended accounts after AI agents made 200 API requests per hour, leading to warnings about permanent bans.

4 Charles Prime Rib target

4 Charles Prime Rib in New York City is a popular target for AI agents, with 18 API calls per window causing 100 contacts per hour.

Resy reinstates with warning

Resy reinstated accounts after a month, but with a warning of permanent bans for future misuse.

“Any future instances of misuse may result in a permanent termination of your Resy account(s) & cancelation of all associated AmEx Card products”

AI tools still integrate with booking platforms

OpenTable and Resy partner with AI tools like Meta's Muse, Google Gemini, and ChatGPT for alerts and bookings without skipping queues.