Securing a dining reservation in New York City has become increasingly challenging, with many food enthusiasts struggling to land a table at the hottest spots over the last three years. The process has evolved from a mere inconvenience to a significant obstacle.
According to Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, some restaurants have become nearly impossible to access. “I’ve even talked to restaurateurs, and they say, ‘I don’t have tips,’” he shared with Bloomberg.
To tackle the growing competitiveness of dinner reservations, the New York state legislature recently passed a law prohibiting third-party booking services like Appointment Trader, where users were selling restaurant reservations for $200 or more, 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 win for the hospitality sector, stating it will diminish reservation competition and shield restaurants from costly no-shows.
Despite these legislative efforts, the craving for unique and luxurious experiences continues to outpace their supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India highlighted this trend, noting that post-COVID, nearly every plane, hotel, and restaurant is fully booked. India, who manages Sienna Charles—a concierge service catering to high-net-worth individuals—has extensive experience in assisting clients, including prominent figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
She points out that access to sought-after restaurants hinges on understanding customer preferences and forming strong relationships with restaurant owners. “People have really moved away from fine dining,” she remarked. “The focus has shifted toward trendy venues, where the dining experience often prioritizes the social aspect over the food itself. It’s more about the fear of missing out and the prestige of being able to say you were there.”
For those determined to secure a reservation at New York’s most coveted eateries, India offers insights on the toughest tables to claim.