Securing a dining reservation in New York has become increasingly difficult, reaching an all-time high in competition. Over the past three years, many food enthusiasts have found that obtaining a seat at the city’s most popular restaurants has transitioned from a challenging task to near impossible.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservations platform Sevenrooms, mentioned in a recent interview that some restaurants are virtually inaccessible. He noted that even restaurateurs he has spoken with do not have tips for securing a reservation at their own establishments.
The situation has become so dire that last month, the New York state legislature voted to prohibit third-party booking websites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell their restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, mirroring practices commonly seen in ticket scalping for concerts and sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, called the legislative move a significant win for the hospitality sector, aimed at reducing reservation competition and shielding restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these legislative efforts, the demand for trendy and lavish dining experiences continues to outstrip supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India observed that post-pandemic, every type of booking—flights, restaurant tables, and hotel rooms—has become fully booked, making it challenging to secure reservations.
As the head of Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service catering to the very wealthy, India has dealt with high-profile clients, including former President George W. Bush and singer Mariah Carey. She highlights that gaining access to coveted dining spots is largely about understanding client desires and forming connections with the restaurants that meet those expectations.
India noted a significant shift in consumer preferences, stating that clients now prefer trendy dining options over traditional fine dining experiences. For many, the appeal is less about the food and more about the social status associated with dining at in-demand locations.
For those eager to claim their own bragging rights and willing to put in the effort to secure a reservation, India has insight on which New York restaurants are currently the hardest to book.