first-time customer; chance customer; customer without an introduction
Refers to a customer visiting an inn, restaurant, or similar establishment for the first time, especially without a referral from a regular. Often used in contexts where such customers may be treated with caution or even refused.
This traditional restaurant does not accept first-time customers without an introduction.
I'm looking for a place where even walk-in customers can feel welcome.
A shorter, more compact form with the same meaning. Slightly less formal than 一見の客.
From 一見 (first seeing, first time) + の (possessive particle) + 客 (customer). The phrase is a set expression in the service industry.