Charleston Welcomes Exciting New Dining Technology: Blackbird
If you’re a foodie in Charleston, we have some thrilling news that’s sure to spice up your dining adventures! Have you ever dreamed of earning rewards while enjoying your favorite local eats? Well, thanks to a brand-new loyalty application called Blackbird, that dream is becoming a delicious reality.
What’s Blackbird All About?
Launched by the visionary Ben Leventhal, who is also the mastermind behind the popular reservation platform Resy, Blackbird aims to offer a fantastic way for diners to enjoy perks and rewards while supporting their beloved local restaurants. Here’s how it works: you simply sign up using your phone number, check in at participating restaurants, and start earning rewards—almost like collecting flight miles!
On a clear October day in Charleston, folks are buzzing about Blackbird as it kicks off its inaugural events, having first made waves in New York City last year. The app officially debuted in Charleston amid a series of exciting culinary experiences, including an exclusive omakase dinner with a renowned NYC sushi chef at the chic wine bar, The Tippling House.
How It Works
Using Blackbird is as easy as pie! Just look for a special tag that resembles a hockey puck at your favorite restaurant, tap “Check in” on your app, and boom—your visit is logged! You can accumulate rewards determined by each restaurant, measured using a unique token known as $FLY. It’s super straightforward and puts everything at your fingertips.
The Buzz Around Town
As Blackbird kicks off, many local restaurant owners are feeling optimistic. Notably, Brooks Reitz, involved with several renowned eateries including Melfi’s and Leon’s Oyster Shop, expresses excitement over how technology, traditionally seen as a disruptor in the dining world, can enhance the personal touch in customer service.
Imagine this: your favorite server knows it’s your birthday and surprises you with a dessert! It’s these little touches that make dining special, and with Blackbird, restaurants are better equipped to create memorable experiences. “The tools we’re getting are fascinating,” Reitz remarks, hinting at a new wave of dining that melds technology with hospitality.
Supporting Local Eateries
One of the standout features of Blackbird is its commitment to helping independent restaurants thrive amidst rising operational costs. Leventhal explains, “While everyone talks about controlling expenses, it’s crucial to explore revenue growth.” With around 50 restaurants expected to be a part of Blackbird in Charleston by the end of 2024, the platform is all set to become an essential tool for local eateries.
The New Blackbird Pay Feature
Adding to the excitement is the Blackbird Pay feature, which allows you to settle your bill directly in the app. This not only streamlines the payment process but also reduces those pesky credit card processing fees that can eat away at restaurants’ profits. At an average of just 2% per transaction, Blackbird Pay can be a game-changer for local operators, enabling them to reinvest in their businesses and staff.
The Response So Far
With many Charleston establishments, including Little Jack’s Tavern, already jumping aboard the Blackbird train, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Diners are excited about the new opportunities for savings and rewards, making Thursday burger nights and daily coffee runs even more appealing!
As the application continues to evolve, it promises to create a vibrant community of dining enthusiasts while fundamentally changing the restaurant loyalty landscape. Whether you’re a brunch-lover or a late-night snack seeker, Blackbird is here to give you just what you crave—and reward you for it.
Looking Ahead
So, folks, if you haven’t already, it’s time to embrace this exciting new chapter in Charleston’s culinary scene. Download Blackbird, explore the participating restaurants, and enjoy the perks of being a loyal diner. Let’s not just eat but also embark on a rewarding journey through our vibrant local dining landscape! Happy eating!
