Michael M.

I've read the vast majority of comments regarding Restaurant.com and I wish to take exception with all of the commentators who felt that the discounts provided were inadequate or that they had been swindled. They seem to be incapable of comprehending just exactly what the website provides. They sell EXPOSURE and they sell it for a very nominal fee. Did the restauranteurs benefit from the exposure that the website generated? Evidently, people who would not otherwise have been aware of his restaurant's existence were introduced to it by Restaurant.com. They fulfilled their end of the bargain... no differently than an expensive billboard, an ad in a local newspaper, a radio spot or television commercial. What makes this form of advertisement superior to others is that the proceeds that would have been spent on a media blitz winds up in the pockets of consumers instead of marketeers, publishers and ad agencies. All of the "critics" need to simply recognize that! Ultimately, at the end of the campaign, some of those consumers will never return to the restaurant. Others WILL return if they had a delightful meal and/or felt completely appreciated by the merchant. I have NEVER returned to a restaurant that made me feel inferior for having taken advantage of their promotions, with or without a coupon. I have exchanged numerous certificates as a result of a merchant's indifference or reluctance to accept Restaurant.com's promotions. I had HUNDREDS of dining options, yet I elected to patronize their restaurant... based on their participation with a reputable website that has succeeded in offering value for my hard-earned dollar. The restaurants that overwhelm me with good service and extraordinary food will further benefit from my recommendations to my friends, acquaintances and associates... which is, by far, the most effective advertising a restauranteur could hope for.