Restaurant group D&D is launching an app that will let users know when they have space at their London branches – not so they can grab a last-minute meal, but so they can book a place to work.
It will see empty bars and tables become desks and unused booths become conference rooms, according to D&D, which wants to make sure its restaurants are in use throughout the day.
The Workroom app goes live on June 10, and will initially include five London locations – 100 Wardour St, Bluebird Chelsea, Bluebird White City, Fiume and Radici.
Users can book a table at their desired location on a pay-as-you-go basis, with a day pass costing £10.
Bundles will also be available, with three passes for £25, five for £50 and ten for £75.
“Whilst a lot of freelancers already choose to work from a café or restaurant, it can often be awkward for both parties,” explains D&D.
“The restaurant team resents the customer taking up a table for a prolonged period and not spending enough to warrant their stay, whilst the customer can feel on edge and distracted for the very same reason. The Workroom legitimises the trade off, leaving both customer and staff knowing exactly where they stand.”
It says each location will have fast wifi, an abundance of plug sockets, and complimentary tea, coffee and water. Guests can also order off the menu, with chefs occasionally offering free samples as they test new dishes.
Des Gunewardena, co-founder of The Workroom, said: “There’s been a big shift in the way Londoners operate day-to-day. I myself am hardly ever in our office and I’ve certainly noticed more people using our restaurant spaces to work in and while other operators are trying to combat that, we thought why not embrace it?
“Introducing The Workroom initially into five of our restaurants will hopefully make them busier during quieter times through the week and also bring in a new audience who may not have visited before.”
