Securing a reservation at New York’s sought-after dining establishments is more challenging than ever, according to recent reports. Over the past three years, the difficulty of booking a table at the city’s hottest restaurants has escalated, leaving many eager diners frustrated.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, shared insights with Bloomberg, noting that there are restaurants where gaining entry has become nearly impossible. In conversations with restaurateurs, he found that even they struggle to provide tips on how to secure a reservation.
The situation prompted action from the New York state legislature, which voted last month to prohibit third-party booking platforms like Appointment Trader. This move aims to crack down on users who were reselling restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, sometimes exceeding $200, much like ticket scalping in concert and sports venues.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant triumph for the hospitality sector, which is expected to ease the competition for reservations and shield restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these legislative changes, the demand for unique and lavish experiences continues to exceed supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India highlighted the ongoing trend, stating, “Post-COVID, everything is booked up—every plane, restaurant, and hotel.” As a seasoned professional running Sienna Charles, a concierge service for elite clients, she has extensive knowledge about navigating the competitive landscape of high-end dining.
India pointed out that even with her high-profile connections, accessing the most exclusive restaurants hinges on understanding customer preferences and forging strong relationships with the establishments. She noted a significant shift away from fine dining and tasting menus towards trendy dining spots, where the experience often revolves around the prestige of being able to say one could secure a reservation.
For those determined to experience these gastronomic hotspots, a list of New York’s most elusive restaurant tables is available, offering insights from Sienna Charles on where the hardest reservations can be found.