In New York, securing a reservation at popular restaurants has become increasingly difficult, reaching levels never seen before. Over the past three years, what was once a challenging endeavor has now become nearly impossible for many dining enthusiasts.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, highlighted the issue, stating that some restaurants are entirely booked. Many restaurateurs he has spoken to have admitted they don’t have tips for gaining entry to these sought-after establishments.
The situation has escalated to the point where, last month, the New York state legislature passed a law prohibiting third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader from scalping restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices—similar to practices seen in concert and sporting event ticketing.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, described this legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, aiming to reduce reservation competition and safeguard restaurants from costly cancellations.
Nevertheless, demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences still surpasses availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted that since the pandemic, virtually everything, from flights to hotels, has been fully booked. She runs Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service for affluent clients, and has worked with notable figures such as George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
India pointed out that success in gaining access to popular dining venues hinges on a few key factors, such as understanding client preferences and building strong relationships with restaurants. She remarked on a noticeable shift away from fine dining, with clients now favoring trendy spots that provide a sense of exclusivity rather than an emphasis on gourmet food.
For those eager to secure a coveted reservation and willing to put in the effort to succeed, a list of the hardest tables to book in New York, as determined by Sienna Charles, is forthcoming.