Google Search AI Mode adds restaurant booking search in Japan with Gurunavi, Ikyu, ebica
On November 6, 2026, Google announced a restaurant reservation search feature for AI Mode in Google Search. It rolls out gradually over the coming weeks, and in Japan Google is working with partners including Gurunavi, Ikyu and ebica.
Key points
- Users describe party size, date and time, location and cuisine, and AI Mode helps find a restaurant and a booking
- It searches across multiple booking sites and websites, checks real-time availability, and lists restaurants that have open slots
- Users finish the booking themselves via the link to the restaurant's booking page; rollout starts Nov 6 and spreads over several weeks
Background
AI Mode is a Google Search feature that handles questions with several conditions at once. This addition links finding a restaurant with reaching a booking page inside Search.
In Japan, Gurunavi, Ikyu and ebica, all widely used restaurant booking services, are named as partners.
What it means for shops
For restaurants, the availability and details shown on booking sites may now influence how many customers arrive via Google Search. A restaurant that does not keep availability current on a partner site may be less likely to appear as a match.
What shops should do
- Update your listing details and availability settings on the booking sites you use, such as Gurunavi, Ikyu or ebica
🔒 3 more action items for subscribers
Summaries are written by Seiichi Studio based on the original releases. Always check the source for the exact details.