We can all agree that going out to dinner is special. A special treat made even more special when it’s a Special Occasion. Dolling up, having a glass of Champagne at the bar before heading to your table, and maybe a cute little candle in your dessert if it’s your birthday. Presumably, whoever made the reservation added a note like “it’s our anniversary” or “birthday girl” or any other such thing. We’re used to adding notes to make our special night Special.

But have you ever been prompted to upload a selfie when making a reservation? It’s a strange new feature that we’ve noticed popping up more and more and it’s got us feeling… something. 

The prompt reads, “Upload your profile photo so we can greet you upon your arrival.” 

As far as we can tell, (ok, fine, as far as I can tell) the only possible motivation for actually doing this is a) to try to convince your date that you’re a big deal, b) your self-esteem needs a bit of a boost, or c) you’re a cheeky chops who is planning an elaborate prank on your dining companion.

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Let’s break it down.

a) Call me jaded or a tragic result of the tall poppy syndrome, but if someone has agreed to go out on a date with you, it’s safe to say that they like you at least a little bit. You’ve probably already dazzled them with your wicked sense of humour, that gorgeous smile, or your myriad other excellent qualities. They likely won’t care if the host appears to be a close personal friend.

b) As one delicious. staffer said, “I’m desperately insecure, so would grasp at any opportunity for someone to validate my existence.” Now, we don’t have enough time to unpack all of that – yikes – but it does raise a valid point I hadn’t considered. While I, personally, would rather die than be perceived, perhaps this self-portrait pressie is like a little gift to yourself. A real “treat yourself” moment, like buying yourself flowers or going for a massage. Who’s the Big Dog? You’re the Big Dog.

c) For an entire year, an old coworker called me Lil, rather than Liz. Easy fix? For sure. Did I correct her? No way! Upon reflection, that nightmare of my own creation is hilarious. And I will go to great lengths to prank my friends. This new booking feature feels like a golden opportunity that I will be taking advantage of. You have been warned. 

Perhaps the most bizarre element here is the ‘so we can greet you upon your arrival.’ Would I, a guest in your establishment, with a reservation, not be getting a greeting anyway? What if I upload a really hot selfie and disappoint the host, like a bad Tinder date? Am I a faceless enigma until I’ve selfied? Let’s all just go back to taking photos of our food, please.

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