Does TGI Fridays Take Reservations? [Updated]
You walk up to the front door of your local TGI Fridays, stomach grumbling in anticipation of their famous appetizers.
But when you go to open the door, you hesitate. Do you need a reservation here?
The short answer is no, TGI Fridays does not take reservations.
As a popular casual dining chain, they operate on a first come, first served basis.
However, there are a few tips to consider if you want to avoid a long wait at your favorite Fridays location.
Call Ahead for Large Parties
While you can’t make a reservation, you can call ahead if you have a large group. TGI Fridays recommends calling 24 hours in advance for parties of 8 or more.
This gives them a heads up that you’re coming and they may be able to set aside some tables.
Just call your local Fridays and let them know:
- Date and time you’d like to come in
- Number of people in your party
- If you need any high chairs or booster seats
This doesn’t guarantee you a table right away, but it improves your chances of being seated quickly upon arrival.
Check Wait Times Online
Many TGI Fridays locations now have online waitlisting through the Yelp app. You can check in online to get in the virtual line before you leave home.
related: Does Bonefish Grill Take Reservations?
When you arrive at the restaurant, you’ll likely still have a short wait. But it should be faster than if you didn’t waitlist online.
Avoid Peak Times
Like most restaurants, Fridays will have longer waits on weekends and holidays. For shorter waits, plan to visit at off-peak times like:
- Weekday lunches before 12 pm
- Weeknights after 7 pm
- Late night on Fridays and Saturdays after 9 pm
Happy hours, especially on Fridays, will also be busier.
Sit at the Bar
If you don’t mind eating at the bar, this can be a good way to get seated faster. The bar area is first come, first served. Head straight there if you see open seats upon arrival.
Pro tip: be prepared to order food if you want to sit at the bar. They may require food orders during peak times.
Check In with the Host
When you arrive, let the host know you’re waiting for a table. They can give you a buzzer and an estimated wait time.
Check in periodically so they know you’re still waiting. Be nice to the host too! They’re likely to seat polite customers faster.
Once you’re given a buzzer, feel free to wait in your car or outside until it goes off. This way you can avoid the crowded waiting area.
Order Appetizers at the Bar While You Wait
If the wait seems excessively long, you can try ordering appetizers at the bar. This helps time fly by. Plus, you’ll be seated by the time you finish your apps.
Good appetizer choices are Fridays classics like:
- Loaded potato skins
- Spinach and artichoke dip
- Fried pickles
- Ultimate nachos
Pair it with a drink like their famous Long Island Iced Tea or signature Fridays Margarita.
Be Flexible with Table Size
If you have a small group, consider sitting at a high top or two-top table. This will get you seated faster than holding out for a big booth.
If you have kids, be open to a table versus a booth so you can fit a highchair.
The more flexible you are with seating options, the faster you’ll get that sizzling skillet in front of you.
Get on the Cancellation List
Never feel shy to ask the host to put your name on the cancellation list. Groups cancel all the time, so spots open up.
Let the host know your group size and they’ll call if they get a last minute cancellation that fits.
Make a Reservation for Next Time
All in all, the no reservation policy at TGI Fridays is because they want to accommodate as many guests as possible.
But if you prefer guaranteed seating, try making reservations for your next night out at similar chains like Chili’s, Applebee’s, or Olive Garden.
The wait may feel annoying in the moment, but chances are that fried goodness will be worth it.
Just use these tips to minimize your wait time and get to the fun part – enjoying Fridays fabulous apps and entrees!
Now grab your besties and head to Fridays for some long island teas, potato skins, and good times.
No reservation required, just follow these tips and you’ll be sitting down in no time. Happy eating!