Securing a reservation at a restaurant in New York has become more challenging than ever. Over the past three years, the struggle for a seat at some of the city’s most sought-after eateries has escalated, leaving many food enthusiasts feeling frustrated.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, stated that there are several restaurants that people find nearly impossible to access. He mentioned that even restaurateurs themselves have admitted to having no tips on how to get a reservation in their own establishments.
The competitive nature of dinner reservations reached a tipping point last month when the New York state legislature took action by voting to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, where users were allegedly reselling restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, similar to ticket scalping for concerts and sports events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, aimed at reducing reservation competition and mitigating financial losses from costly cancellations.
Despite the law changes, the demand for exciting and trendy dining experiences continues to exceed availability. Jaclyn Sienna India, a travel advisor, noted that since the pandemic, every aspect of travel and dining seems to be fully booked, creating a dilemma for securing spots at restaurants, hotels, and other luxury experiences.
With 16 years of experience running Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service for affluent clients, India understands the nuances of securing reservations. Her clients often include those with substantial wealth, and she emphasizes that accessing top restaurants hinges on understanding client desires and developing relationships with restaurant operators.
India observes a noticeable shift in dining preferences; clients are less interested in traditional fine dining and more inclined toward trendy venues that offer an experience rather than just food. She explains that for many, the allure lies in the exclusivity and the ability to share that experience with others.
For those determined to secure a reservation and enjoy the prestige of dining at some of New York’s hardest-to-book restaurants, India provides guidance on navigating this competitive landscape.