Securing a dining reservation in New York has become increasingly difficult, with many food enthusiasts finding it nearly impossible to secure a seat at the city’s most sought-after restaurants. According to Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, the situation has escalated significantly over the past three years.
Montaniel reveals that some restaurants are simply inaccessible, even for industry insiders. He notes that restaurateurs themselves struggle to provide tips on securing a reservation. The heightened competition for dinner slots has prompted the New York state legislature to take action, recently voting to prohibit third-party booking platforms like Appointment Trader, which allowed individuals to resell reservations for exorbitant prices.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the new legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, suggesting it will lessen reservation competition and shield establishments from costly cancellations.
Even with these legal modifications, the challenge persists, as the demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to exceed supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India emphasizes this point, noting that post-pandemic, availability has tightened across the board, from restaurants to flights to hotels.
India, who has a wealth of experience as a concierge for high-net-worth clients, highlights that successful access to premium dining options hinges on understanding client preferences and fostering relationships with restaurants. She notes a shift away from fine dining towards trendy spots, where patrons are often motivated by the desire to share their experiences rather than the food itself.
For those determined to pursue a reservation, Sienna Charles offers insight into which New York City restaurants are currently the most challenging to book.