Securing a dining reservation in New York has become increasingly difficult, reaching new heights of competition in the last three years. The challenge of snagging a seat at the city’s hottest restaurants has intensified, making it nearly impossible for many food enthusiasts.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, noted that some restaurants have become notoriously difficult to access. He conveyed that even restaurateurs themselves are at a loss for strategies to facilitate easier bookings.
Recently, the New York state legislature took steps to address the issue by voting to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader. These platforms had allowed users to resell restaurant reservations for large sums, mimicking practices typically seen in the concert and sports industries.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, lauded the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, as it aims to lessen booking competition and shield restaurants from costly no-shows.
Despite these legislative efforts, the gap between demand for trendy dining experiences and their availability has only widened. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India pointed out the post-pandemic phenomenon where everything, from flights to accommodations to restaurants, seems perpetually booked.
With 16 years of experience running Sienna Charles, a luxury concierge and travel planning service for affluent clients, including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, India understands the intricacies of securing reservations. She highlighted that gaining access to exclusive venues depends largely on knowing what diners desire and fostering relationships with restaurant staff.
India has observed a marked shift in dining preferences, noting that her clients increasingly favor trendy dining spots over traditional fine dining experiences. The motivation behind these choices, she suggests, often stems from a desire for social validation rather than simply enjoying gourmet meals.
For those determined to secure a coveted table in New York, India offers insights into which restaurants have become the hardest to book.