Finding a reservation at New York’s top restaurants has become increasingly challenging. Over the past three years, securing a seat at the city’s most sought-after dining spots has moved from difficult to nearly impossible for many enthusiasts.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of bookings platform Sevenrooms, stated in an interview with Bloomberg that some restaurants are so exclusive that even seasoned restaurateurs struggle to provide tips on how to get in.
The situation has become so dire that New York’s state legislature recently voted to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to resell restaurant reservations for high prices, sometimes exceeding $200, a practice previously limited to concerts and sports events.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector. She believes it will lessen the competition for reservations and protect establishments from the financial losses associated with costly cancellations.
Despite these legislative efforts, the demand for unique and upscale dining experiences continues to exceed supply. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted that since the pandemic, it seems everything is fully booked, from flights to hotels to restaurants. With her company, Sienna Charles, serving ultra-wealthy clients including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, India understands the nuances of securing reservations better than most.
She pointed out that the key to gaining access to exclusive dining venues lies in understanding customer preferences and nurturing relationships with the restaurants. India observed a shift in trends, noting that clients increasingly favor vibrant dining experiences over traditional fine dining, focusing more on the excitement of the venue rather than the meal itself.
For those determined to secure a table at New York’s hardest-to-book restaurants, perseverance is essential, as detailed by Sienna Charles.