Securing a reservation at New York’s top restaurants has become increasingly difficult in the past three years, reaching new levels of competition. The trendiest dining spots are now almost unattainable for many eager patrons.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, noted that some establishments are simply inaccessible, even to restaurateurs themselves, who have been unable to offer advice on how to secure a table.
In response to the growing frustration over reservation challenges, the New York state legislature recently voted to ban third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which previously allowed users to resell restaurant slots for exorbitant prices akin to ticket scalping for concerts and sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, praised the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, claiming it would decrease reservation competition and shield restaurants from costly cancellations.
Nevertheless, despite legislative efforts, the demand for exciting and luxurious experiences in the post-COVID world has outpaced supply. Jaclyn Sienna India, a travel advisor with extensive experience in the field, remarked on the increasing difficulty of finding open slots at restaurants, hotels, and other upscale experiences, as nearly all bookings are filled.
India, who runs Sienna Charles, a concierge service for high-net-worth individuals and has worked with clients such as George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, attributes access to exclusive restaurants and experiences to understanding customer preferences and fostering relationships with establishments.
She pointed out a shift in dining trends, stating that clients are moving away from traditional fine dining and extensive tasting menus. Instead, the focus has shifted towards trendy venues where the experience is often more about social status and less about the culinary offerings.
For those determined to claim their own bragging rights and willing to put in the effort to secure a reservation, there are still a few notoriously difficult tables to score in New York City, as outlined by experts in the field.