For 185 years, Antoine’s restaurant has been a cornerstone of fine dining in New Orleans, blending French Creole cuisine with a legacy that includes hosting presidents, celebrities, and generations of locals. But even a restaurant with this much history knows that staying relevant means evolving.
Antoine’s joined OpenTable 12 years ago, recognizing that offering reservations online could help them reach new customers and streamline operations. Lisa Blount, project manager, public relations lead, and wife of Antoine’s fifth-generation owner, saw an opportunity to simplify the process and encouraged the team to adopt OpenTable. With a more efficient reservation and table management system in place, Antoine’s was able to reduce no-shows, optimize table turnover, and make it easier for both locals and visitors to secure a sought-after table at the iconic restaurant.
Here, Blount shares how OpenTable continues to help Antoine’s honor its traditions while embracing the future.
Creating a seamless experience from first click to last bite
“We’ve always been about the guest experience,” Lisa explained. “But now, with tools like OpenTable, we’re able to connect with diners in ways we never could before.”
Before a guest even books, Antoine’s uses OpenTable to set clear expectations for guests. From dietary accommodations to dress codes to accessibility, they offer everything guests need to know right on their restaurant profile. With this information readily available to diners via the OpenTable app (and website), they’re able to remove any uncertainty for diners planning their visit.
“OpenTable gives us a way to answer all those questions before guests even have to ask—and that makes for a much better experience.”
During the dining experience, they use OpenTable to collect key guest details—birthdays, anniversaries, special requests. Having them readily available in their guestbook allows the Antoine’s team to tailor each visit and keep that personal touch.
Preserving human connection in a digital world
Despite the benefits of technology, Antoine’s remains deeply committed to maintaining a personal touch. “We’re not here to replace the human connection,” says Lisa. “Technology should enhance the experience, not take over.”
She recalls how, after a recent tragic event in New Orleans, she personally fielded phone calls from concerned guests, offering reassurance and helping them adjust their plans. “Those personal moments matter,” she said. “Technology is great, but sometimes people just need to hear a real voice.”
The team always prioritizes answering the phone, greeting guests personally, and making sure every guest feels welcomed.
Balancing modern tools with tradition
Antoine’s continues to evolve without losing what makes it so unique. “Our history hasn’t changed because of OpenTable,” says Lisa. “We’re still serving our classic French Creole fare made from local Louisiana ingredients and offering a fine dining experience, known for its unpretentious elegance. But now, we can meet guests where they are—whether that’s booking a table last minute or letting them know what to expect before they arrive.”
The Antoine’s team trusts OpenTable to help the restaurant maximize growth. “There are so many features we’re excited to explore,” Lisa says. “We’re looking at optimizing private dining bookings with OpenTable and other tools that can help us enhance what we offer—without overwhelming what already works.”
At the end of the day, Antoine’s continued success comes down to blending old-world charm with modern convenience. “It’s about using technology to strengthen the connection between us and our guests. We’re still the Antoine’s people know and love—just with a few new tools to make it even better.”
