Securing a reservation at New York’s most popular restaurants has become increasingly difficult over the past three years, with many food enthusiasts finding it nearly impossible to get a seat at the city’s trendiest venues.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, noted in a recent conversation that some dining establishments have become virtually inaccessible. He shared that restaurateurs have admitted they no longer have tips to offer for securing a reservation, indicating how challenging the situation has become.
This rising difficulty prompted the New York state legislature last month to vote in favor of banning third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, where users have been known to sell restaurant reservations for upwards of $200, an issue often seen with concert and sports tickets.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the new legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector. She believes it will lessen competition for reservations and shield restaurants from costly cancellations.
Nonetheless, even with these legislative measures, the demand for unique and upscale dining experiences continues to exceed the supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India highlighted the overall post-COVID landscape, where virtually all travel and dining venues are fully booked, creating a challenge for clients looking to secure exclusive access.
India, who has over 16 years of experience running Sienna Charles— a concierge and travel planning service for wealthy clients—suggests that access to sought-after dining spots is largely dependent on understanding customer preferences and fostering relationships with restaurant owners.
According to India, there has been a noticeable shift in dining trends, with patrons increasingly moving away from traditional fine dining and gourmet tasting menus. Instead, there’s a growing emphasis on trendy atmospheres where the experience and social status take precedence over the food quality. The allure stems from the desire to share the experience and the prestige of having gained entry to these exclusive places.
For those determined to enjoy dining at some of New York’s hardest-to-book restaurants, persistence is key, especially as the competition for reservations remains fierce.