Why (and how) DoorDash and Uber Eats are getting into the restaurant reservations game

A decade ago, the easiest way in the front door at a restaurant was often to call—or even just show up for a meal. Now, it’s far easier to book ahead, and the list of ways to get a coveted seat at the table is growing to include some surprising places. The country’s two largest delivery apps, DoorDash and Uber Eats, have both shared plans in recent weeks to add restaurant reservations to their apps. 

A crowded field

Over the past few years, restaurant reservations—especially the hot ones—have become a type of currency.