Consumer beware
They seem like such a perfect solution and most of the time they are. A gift certificate to a restaurant 1) doesn't have to be wrapped, 2) is usually happily accepted and 3) one size fits all.
But you should probably be wary before you plunk your money down for this gift. Of all the culinary complaints that I hear, the ones about gift certificates are by far the most common.
So here's my advice: Know your restaurant and know what the gift certificate entails. Does it have an expiration date? Is it applicable every night of the week? Can it be used to cover tax and tip? Does it impose any special responsibility on the person who receives it? Must he declare the certificate before he orders? Must he mention it while making a reservation?
If the answers to all the above questions fit in with your plans, well then go ahead. Your gift will probably be successful and they'll love you forever. But there is one other thing: These are tough times, so try to determine if the restaurant is likely to stay in business for a while. Once those doors get locked, forget legal action -- your friend is out of luck. And, just to stay on the safer side...
Caution your recipient to use the certificate quickly.
