Dining out in New York City has become increasingly difficult, as the challenge of securing reservations at popular restaurants has intensified over the past three years. For many food enthusiasts, getting a table at the most sought-after venues has transitioned from a hurdle to an unattainable goal.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, highlighted the severity of the situation, stating, “There are some restaurants that people can’t get into.” He noted that even restaurateurs have struggled to provide advice on how to secure a reservation.
In response to the escalating competition for dinner reservations, the New York state legislature passed a law last month aimed at banning third-party booking sites, such as Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell their restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, comparable to ticket scalping in sports and concerts.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector, stating that it would lessen the competition for bookings and protect restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these legislative efforts, the demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to surpass supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India remarked, “Post-COVID, everything is booked up, right? Every plane is full, every restaurant is full, every hotel is full.” She shared insights on navigating this competitive landscape, drawing from her experience running Sienna Charles, a concierge and travel planning service catering to ultra-wealthy clients, including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
India stressed that gaining access to exclusive restaurants hinges on understanding client desires and fostering relationships with restaurant owners. She observed a shift in consumer preferences, noting that clients are moving away from fine dining experiences to favor trendy establishments, where the allure often lies more in the experience than the food itself. “It’s sort of about FOMO. It’s about saying that you got in; it’s a bragging right.”
For those eager to secure a reservation and eager to boast about their dining experiences, India provides insight into which New York restaurants are the most challenging to book.