Securing a dinner reservation in New York has become increasingly difficult, with many food enthusiasts finding it nearly impossible to snag a seat at the city’s most sought-after restaurants over the past three years.
According to Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, some establishments have become so exclusive that restaurateurs themselves struggle to offer advice on securing a reservation. “There are some restaurants that people can’t get into,” he stated in a recent interview.
The competitive landscape for dining has prompted action from the state legislature, which recently voted to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader. These platforms had allowed users to resell reservations for exorbitant prices, akin to ticket scalping for concerts or sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, aiming to lessen the competition for reservations and shield restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these new laws, the appetite for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to eclipse supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted, “Post-COVID, I’m sure you’ve noticed that everything is booked up. Every plane is full, every restaurant is full, every hotel is full.” She pointed out the challenge of helping clients secure reservations at venues that are frequently at capacity.
With 16 years of experience running Sienna Charles, a luxury concierge and travel service, India caters to ultra-wealthy families. She emphasizes that successful access to exclusive establishments hinges on understanding clients’ desires and forging connections with restaurant owners.
Reflecting on dining trends, India remarked that clients have shifted away from traditional fine dining experiences toward trendy venues. She explained, “It’s about FOMO. It’s about saying that you got in; it’s a bragging right.”
For those determined to claim their own bragging rights and willing to persist in their reservation efforts, Sienna Charles has identified which New York restaurants are currently the most difficult to book.