Securing a dinner reservation at New York’s most sought-after restaurants has become increasingly difficult, according to industry experts. Over the past three years, the challenge of obtaining a seat at trendy dining spots has escalated significantly, leaving many food enthusiasts frustrated.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, noted in a recent interview that some restaurants have become virtually inaccessible. He mentioned discussions with restaurateurs who are equally perplexed about the situation and lack guidance on how to secure reservations.
In response to this growing issue, the New York state legislature passed a law last month that prohibits third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to resell their dining reservations for exorbitant prices, similar to practices seen in concert and sporting event ticket sales.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed this legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, as it aims to lessen competition for reservations and protect restaurants from costly last-minute cancellations.
Despite these legislative efforts, the reality remains that demand for exhilarating and trendy dining experiences continues to exceed their supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India highlighted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, every aspect of travel and dining has become more packed, making it difficult to secure desired reservations.
India, who has 16 years of experience running Sienna Charles—a luxury concierge and travel planning service—shared insight into acquiring exclusive restaurant access. Catering to ultra-wealthy clients, including notable figures, she emphasized the importance of understanding client preferences and fostering relationships with restaurants.
According to India, the dining landscape has shifted away from traditional fine dining, with clients increasingly favoring trendy restaurants that prioritize experiences over food. She noted that the appeal often lies in social status, as dining at these popular spots has become a status symbol.
For those willing to persist in their quest for reservations, India plans to unveil a list of New York’s hardest-to-get restaurant tables.