Securing a reservation at a restaurant in New York has become increasingly difficult, with the challenge reaching unprecedented levels in recent years. The competition for seats at the city’s most sought-after dining establishments has escalated to the point where many food enthusiasts find it nearly impossible to get a table.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, noted in a conversation with Bloomberg that restaurateurs themselves often lack advice on how to secure reservations at their own establishments. “There are some restaurants that people can’t get into,” he remarked.
The situation prompted New York state legislators to approve a ban on third-party reservation booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell their restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, sometimes exceeding $200. This trend had become similar to ticket scalping for concerts and sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the new legislation as a significant victory for the hospitality industry. She stated that it would lessen competition for reservations and shield restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these regulatory changes, the reality remains that the demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences outpaces their availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India observed that since the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly all travel and hospitality sectors, including restaurants, have experienced increased booking difficulties.
India, who runs the luxury concierge and travel service Sienna Charles, has spent 16 years assisting wealthy families, including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, in accessing exclusive experiences. She emphasized that success in securing sought-after reservations hinges on understanding client preferences and cultivating relationships with restaurants.
According to India, there has been a significant shift away from fine dining towards trendy restaurants, where the ambiance and social experience take precedence over the food itself. She noted that these dining destinations are often more about the experience and the ability to share that experience with others.
For those determined to secure a reservation and gain their own bragging rights, India has insight into which restaurants in New York are the most challenging to book.