Getting a reservation at New York’s popular restaurants has become increasingly challenging over the past three years, leaving many food enthusiasts frustrated. According to Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, some restaurants are so exclusive that even industry insiders have trouble securing a table.
The New York state legislature recently took action to combat this issue by banning third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, akin to ticket scalping for concerts. Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality industry, aimed at decreasing reservation competition and protecting restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these new regulations, the demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to surpass supply, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted the increased difficulty in securing reservations as travel and dining venues fill up quickly.
Indian’s expertise, honed over 16 years through her luxury concierge service Sienna Charles, underscores the importance of understanding client preferences and fostering relationships with preferred restaurants. She observed a shift in consumer desires, with fewer clients interested in formal dining experiences, favoring trendy spots that offer an opportunity for social bragging rather than an emphasis on food itself.
For those determined to secure a coveted reservation, Sienna Charles provides insights on which New York restaurants are currently the hardest to book.