In hospitality, every table is valuable—but what if each reservation guaranteed higher spending before the guest even arrives?
That’s the power of a minimum spend policy. It’s becoming a go-to strategy for restaurants, private beaches, and event venues that want to maximize table revenue while offering guests more flexibility.
What is a minimum spend?
A minimum spend is the required amount a guest agrees to spend when booking a table. It can apply per person, per table, or per reservation window. Unlike set menus or cover charges, guests can choose what to order—but they agree to reach the minimum amount during their visit.
It’s ideal for:
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prime-time bookings (weekends, holidays, special events)
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high-demand tables (like beachfront spots or terrace corners)
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premium experiences (bottle service, tasting menus, private seating)
Why restaurants use minimum spend policies
Minimum spend rules aren’t about limiting guests—they’re about optimizing space and income. Here’s what they help you do:
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Increase revenue without changing your menu
You don’t need to raise prices—just ensure each booking reaches a baseline value. -
Attract serious bookings
When guests agree to spend a certain amount, they’re more likely to show up and stay longer. -
Manage high-demand tables fairly
Apply a minimum spend to your most requested tables and reduce the chance of last-minute cancellations. -
Reduce no-shows
Guests who commit to a minimum are less likely to flake, especially when combined with tools like UpSalt’s WhatsApp reminders.
How to apply minimum spend with UpSalt
UpSalt is one of the few reservation systems that lets you add a minimum spend at the table level—directly inside your floor plan.
1. Select your tables
Use the interactive seat selection tool to assign minimum spends to specific zones, like cabanas or VIP sections.
2. Set the rules
Adjust minimums based on day, time, or number of guests.
3. Show it during booking
Guests see the spend requirement as they book. Clear expectations = no surprises.
4. Combine with upsells
Guests can easily reach the minimum by pre-selecting services like cakes, valet, or champagne through UpSalt’s extra services feature.
Ready to start?
Whether you manage a restaurant, beach club, or event space, minimum spend rules are an easy way to increase revenue and reduce booking risk.
Book a free demo and let UpSalt show you how to make every reservation more valuable.