Diners desperate for a post-lockdown treat have fuelled a surge in bookings that has seen some restaurants booked out until autumn but the rush has prompted some owners to ask for payment upfront. Fed up owners struggling to stay afloat amid the coronavirus lockdown are now asking that customers pay for meals when they book a table in an effort to stamp out 'no-shows'. The move comes as the country gears up to open restaurants for outdoor dining once more on April 12. Owner Kray Treadwell, who runs the 670 Grams restaurant in Birmingham, said their venue had already begun taking prepayments for bookings from customers wishing to try their ten course tasting menu - which costs up to £70.