Dining out in New York has become increasingly challenging, with securing a reservation at the city’s most sought-after restaurants reaching a new level of difficulty. Over the past three years, the process has changed from difficult to nearly impossible for many diners eager to experience the latest culinary hotspots.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, shared insights with Bloomberg, noting, “There are some restaurants that people can’t get into.” He mentioned consulting with restaurateurs who, when asked for tips on securing reservations, simply replied that they had none.
The situation has prompted the New York state legislature to take action. Last month, lawmakers voted to ban third-party booking platforms like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell restaurant reservations for prices exceeding $200, a practice reminiscent of ticket scalping for concerts and sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant achievement for the hospitality sector, aimed at reducing reservation competition and shielding restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these legislative efforts, the demand for unique and trendy dining experiences remains high, outpacing availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India observed that post-COVID, the booking landscape has become fiercely competitive, with every flight, restaurant, and hotel at capacity.
Having operated Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service for over 16 years, India specializes in catering to ultra-high-net-worth families, with clients including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey. She recognizes that successfully securing access to premier restaurants and experiences hinges on understanding customer preferences and fostering relationships with restaurant owners.
India noted a shift in dining preferences, explaining, “People have really moved away from fine dining; very rarely do we have a client that wants a tasting menu.” The trend now leans toward fashionable establishments where the experience transcends food, largely driven by social status and the desire for memorable dining moments.
For those who wish to secure a coveted reservation in New York, persistence and strategic planning are key, as highlighted by Sienna Charles.