I’ve always (i.e. Since ~2003) been frustrated by restaurants’ seeming inability to understand even the most basic of Internet marketing skills.

As much as 17% sounds pretty crazy for “payment processing,” it *doesn’t* sound crazy for payment processing plus marketing.

I don’t like the monopoly aspect either, but this may be the result of restaurant owners being so (seemingly — my opinion is utterly anecdotal based on personal experience) resistant to acknowledging the importance of a decent web presence. When only one company has managed to convince owners/managers of this importance, they win.

Hell, the site doesn’t even have to be QUALITY! It could look horrible as long as their menu, hours and phone number are up there. Now, does my UX-lover’s heart wish people would appreciate good design & function? YES. But I’d love to compare that 17% to the cost of, say, a square space and a staffer who’s savvy enough to keep it updated.