Securing a dining reservation in New York has become increasingly difficult, with the process evolving into a nearly impossible task for many food enthusiasts over the past three years.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, recently noted that certain restaurants are practically inaccessible. “I’ve spoken with restaurateurs, and when asked for tips on securing a spot, they often don’t have any,” he stated.
The competitive nature of dinner reservations prompted the New York state legislature to act last month by banning third-party booking services like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell restaurant reservations for exorbitant prices, comparable to the scalping seen in concert and sports venues.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the legislation as a significant triumph for the hospitality sector, aimed at reducing reservation competition and shielding restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite these legal measures, the reality remains that the appeal for trendy and lavish dining experiences continues to surpass their availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India pointed out the post-COVID era has exacerbated the situation, with virtually every restaurant, hotel, and travel option fully booked.
India has extensive experience in securing reservations, having operated Sienna Charles, a luxury concierge and travel planning service for affluent clients, for 16 years. Her clientele often includes families with fortunes exceeding $100 million, as well as high-profile individuals like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
Nonetheless, India emphasizes that accessing the most sought-after restaurants hinges on understanding customer desires and fostering relationships with the establishments that can meet those needs.
“There has been a notable shift away from fine dining; few clients now request a tasting menu. Instead, there’s a growing preference for trendy restaurants, where the experience is less about the food and more about the social status that comes with dining there,” she explained.
For those determined to secure a coveted reservation and flaunt their dining experiences, Sienna Charles has identified which New York restaurants are the most challenging to book.