Opinion on restaurants asking for credit cards when making r

*Even when I write a killer review, I do write as a gentleman. As one restaurateur once told me: "You ripped me apart but thanks for doing it gently".

"A diplomat is someone who can tell you to go to hell in such a way that you will look forward to the trip. "

For the reasons others have stated, I don't have any problem with it. Credit card scams aren't really likely to be a problem with a known, local establishment. I might be a little more cautious about keying in my card number to a Website based in Thailand.

I think we've overlooked one important factor, though: Does the restaurant have a reasonable cancellation policy? Will they charge your card if you call in with reasonable notice to let them know you won't be able to make it? THAT would be the deal-breaker for me. Beyond that, it's a reasonable business practice that's fair to both the restaurant and the consumer. If in additional doubt, consider using Amex, which tends to be more aggressive in standing up for the customer than MC or Visa.

I brought up the cancellation thing above and no one has caught that yet. I do think it is a valid, and maybe even an important question to ask. If I am to be charged without possibility of canceling, then I am not making the reservation in the first place. Dale, FYI, I don't give my cc number to anyone over the phone no matter who. The second part of my post above gives one an easy work around to the problem.