Dining out in New York has become increasingly challenging, with securing a reservation at the city’s trendiest restaurants now more difficult than ever. Over the past three years, the process of obtaining a table has shifted from being difficult to nearly impossible for many eager diners.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, highlighted this issue in a recent conversation with Bloomberg, noting that even restaurateurs struggle to provide tips for getting into their own establishments.
The situation prompted New York state legislators to take action last month, voting to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell their restaurant slots for exorbitant prices, sometimes exceeding $200. This market for reservations has evolved into a trend more akin to ticket scalping for concerts.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, praised the new legislation, calling it a significant win for the hospitality sector. It aims to mitigate competition for reservations and protect restaurants from costly cancellations.
However, even with these legal adjustments, the demand for unique and luxurious dining experiences continues to outpace supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted a noticeable trend: since the pandemic, all aspects of travel—including flights, hotels, and restaurants—are at full capacity.
Having operated Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service catering to high-net-worth individuals for 16 years, India has her finger on the pulse of acquiring restaurant access. Despite a clientele that includes prominent figures such as George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, she asserts that securing a reservation often hinges on understanding client preferences and nurturing relationships with the right venues.
India pointed out a shift in consumer dining preferences over the past few years. Many individuals are less interested in the traditional fine dining experience and more drawn to fashionable eateries where the appeal lies more in the experience and social status than the food itself. “It’s not always about the food,” she stated, “It’s about sharing that you got in; it’s a status symbol.”
For those determined to snag a reservation at New York’s most sought-after restaurants, persistence is key, and understanding the trends can significantly improve your chances.