First Table, the innovative restaurant discovery platform, recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at the sophisticated Solander Dining & Bar. Known for revolutionizing how diners explore new culinary experiences, First Table offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a 50% discount on food by booking the first table of the night at participating restaurants. This milestone event was a testament to the app’s success in connecting food lovers with top dining spots while offering an unbeatable deal to attract off-peak diners.
The concept for First Table was sparked by founder Mat Weir’s experience at a small French restaurant in Queenstown, which offered 50% off the food bill when you booked the first table of the night. The restaurant used the ‘locals’ secret’ as a promotional tool to attract other diners by seating them at a table visible to those passing by outside.
After humble beginnings in Queenstown, New Zealand, in 2014, Mat took a leap of faith and introduced First Table to Manly, Sydney, just one year later. He recalls, “First Table really took off in New Zealand, and in September 2015 we decided to launch the platform in Sydney, our first Australian city!”
“I remember walking the streets of Manly, pitching to restaurant owners, and sharing how we could help their business. It was daunting but exciting, and seeing the positive reception and the impact we could make reinforced that we were on the right path.” He added. Since then, the company has grown to operate in over 50 cities globally.
One of the standout features of First Table is its user-friendly interface. From the moment you download the app, it’s clear that simplicity and convenience are at the forefront. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or a special night out, booking a table takes only a few taps. The app provides a curated selection of restaurants, each offering the first table of the evening at half the usual food price. It’s a fantastic way to try new places without breaking the bank.
The benefits are manifold. You get to dine at some of the best restaurants in your city and enjoy your meal without the rush, as you’re seated early in the evening. This means attentive service, a relaxed atmosphere, and the chance to enjoy your dining experience fully.
Reflecting on the past decade, Mat expressed his enthusiasm for the future: “Looking back, I am amazed at what we’ve accomplished. Since we launched in Sydney, we’ve delivered over 300,000 off-peak covers for over 150 partner restaurants here.” He said. “As we move forward, we’re excited to continue evolving and growing the platform, ensuring that we keep connecting people with fantastic food experiences around the world.”
Since 2019, Solander Dining and Bar at the West Hotel Sydney has been a proud partner restaurant. Nathan Kengike, Hotel Manager, says, “The First Table platform is unique because it combines two key drivers for diners and two key needs for businesses. Diners get to try something new and they get a great deal doing so – and businesses such as ourselves are able to increase exposure to unexplored markets and also drive incremental revenue. Everybody wins!”
The 10th anniversary celebration at Solander Dining & Bar featured a meticulously crafted sharing menu that truly showcased the restaurant’s culinary prowess. The meal began with an array of starters that set the tone for the evening. The Mushroom Arancini, with its crispy exterior and molten interior, offered a delightful blend of earthy truffle, tender mushrooms, and gooey mozzarella, all elevated by a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan. Equally enticing was the Chicken and Sticky Tamari Caramel, where succulent chicken pieces were glazed in a sweet and savoury tamari caramel sauce, perfectly balanced with fresh chilli, coriander, lime, and a dusting of sesame seeds. The Chorizo Sausage Roll, a gourmet twist on a classic favourite, was baked to perfection and paired with a rich, spiced tomato jam, adding depth and warmth to each bite.
As the evening progressed, the mains continued to impress. The Truffled Cauliflower Mac ‘n’ Cheese was a standout, combining the comforting richness of this beloved dish with a sophisticated twist. The creamy cauliflower and wattle seed soubise provided a luscious base, enhanced by the nutty notes of pecorino Sardo and the fresh brightness of persillade. Craving something heartier, the Steak Frites delivered a perfectly cooked 250g Riverina sirloin, complemented by crispy shoestring fries and a rich beef jus that amplified the steak’s natural flavours. The Pan-seared Barramundi Fillet was a light yet flavorful option, with the fish cooked to tender perfection and served in a delicate broth infused with ginger, mirin, and soy, adding a subtle umami depth to the dish.
Accompanying the mains were sides that provided the perfect balance to the meal. A fresh and vibrant Garden Salad offered a crisp counterpoint to the richer dishes, while the Truffled Fries, crispy and aromatic, were an indulgent treat that no one could resist.
The evening culminated in a dessert that left everyone with a lasting impression. The Chocolate Cake Ala Mode was delightful, with a rich chocolate slice paired with salted caramel popcorn, biscoff ice cream, and a drizzle of dulce de leche. This dessert was the perfect finale to a great evening, leaving everyone with a sense of satisfaction and delight.
First Table has undoubtedly changed the way we dine out. With its focus on affordability, quality, and convenience, it’s no wonder that the app has been so successful. As they celebrate their 10th anniversary, we can only hope for many more years of delicious discoveries. Connecting over 1.5 million foodies with over 1,800 restaurant partners across Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. It encourages people to try new cuisines, enjoy more meals with friends and family, and support the hospitality industry by filling otherwise empty tables.
The First Table app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
