Dining out in New York City has become increasingly difficult as securing a reservation at top restaurants has reached new extremes. Over the past three years, many aspiring diners have found it nearly impossible to nab a seat at the city’s hottest eateries.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, stated that some restaurants have become so exclusive that even restaurateurs struggle to offer advice on how to secure a table. He recently shared that during discussions with restaurant owners, they expressed their inability to provide helpful tips.
In response to the growing challenge of obtaining dinner reservations, New York state legislators voted last month to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which facilitated the resale of restaurant reservations for $200 or more, reminiscent of ticket scalping for concerts and sports events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, lauded the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, intended to diminish competition over reservations and shield restaurants from costly no-shows.
Despite these legislative efforts, the growing demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to surpass their availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted the post-COVID landscape, where restaurants, hotels, and flights are consistently booked to capacity.
India, who has spent 16 years managing Sienna Charles, a concierge service catering to the ultra-wealthy, emphasizes the importance of understanding customer preferences and fostering relationships with restaurants. Her client roster includes high-profile individuals such as George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
She highlighted a notable shift away from traditional fine dining, stating that clients are more interested in trendy spots that provide a sense of exclusivity and social cachet rather than an emphasis on the food itself. For those eager to join in on the exclusivity and secure a coveted reservation, India’s insights can help navigate the competitive landscape of New York City’s dining scene.