Pocket Concierge

About Pocket Concierge

Pocket Concierge operates as a specialized online platform for booking high-end and exclusive restaurants across Japan. Founded in April 2011 by Kei Tokado, the company, originally named Pocket Menu, was established to bridge the gap between Japan's finest culinary establishments and a global clientele. Tokado, a former chef, leveraged his industry insight and experience from his family's restaurant to build trust with chefs who were traditionally hesitant to digitize, addressing concerns like language barriers and no-shows from foreign customers.

The firm targets both domestic and international diners seeking premium culinary experiences, including Michelin-starred and members-only restaurants that are otherwise difficult to access. The platform provides a seamless process, allowing users to discover, book, and pay for their reservations entirely online, a significant convenience for international tourists. Its service is offered in Japanese, English, and Chinese, catering to the growing inbound tourism market in Japan. The business model centers on facilitating these reservations, with revenue generated through partnerships with its curated list of over 800 premium restaurants. For users, the service is free, focusing instead on providing a frictionless payment and booking experience.

A key strategic milestone was its acquisition by American Express in January 2019 for an undisclosed sum, a move that followed a pre-existing partnership established in 2017. This acquisition was a logical step for American Express to enhance its dining benefits for card members by providing exclusive access to Japan's top-tier restaurant scene. Following the acquisition, Pocket Concierge continues to operate as a subsidiary, integrating its technology with American Express's global services. Before the acquisition, the company had secured approximately $600K in funding from investors including 500 Startups Japan, Isetan Mitsukoshi Innovation, and Nippon Venture Capital.