Dining out in New York has become increasingly challenging, with securing a reservation at the city’s most popular restaurants now more difficult than ever. Over the past three years, the quest for a table at trendy establishments has escalated to a point where many food enthusiasts find it nearly impossible.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, shared insights with Bloomberg, noting, “Some restaurants are just not accessible.” He stated that he has discussed this situation with various restaurateurs, who often admit they lack solutions for those seeking reservations.
The situation has prompted the New York state legislature to take action. Last month, they voted to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, where individuals have been reselling restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, sometimes up to $200. This practice has drawn comparisons to scalping tickets for concerts and sports events.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed this legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, aiming to ease competition for reservations and protect restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite the legislative efforts, the growing demand for trendy, lavish experiences continues to exceed their availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted the post-COVID landscape: “Everything is booked up, right? Every plane is full, every restaurant is full, every hotel is full.” India, who runs Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel service for affluent clients, recognizes the challenges in securing access to high-demand venues.
With a clientele that includes notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, India highlights that gaining access to sought-after dining establishments hinges on understanding clients’ desires and fostering relationships with restaurant owners.
She pointed out a shift in dining preferences, stating, “People have really moved away from fine dining. Clients rarely request tasting menus now. The focus has shifted towards trendy spots, where the experience is often more about the hype than the food.”
For those determined to secure reservations and enjoy the thrill of dining at exclusive restaurants, India shares insights on which New York dining venues are among the hardest to book.