Securing a reservation at New York’s most sought-after restaurants has become increasingly challenging, with the past three years seeing a significant rise in difficulty for food enthusiasts hoping to snag a seat.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the reservation platform Sevenrooms, highlighted the issue by noting that some restaurants have become inaccessible to diners. He mentioned that conversations with restaurateurs reveal a lack of solutions for obtaining reservations, indicating a broader problem within the dining scene.
In response to the competitive landscape, the New York state legislature has taken action by prohibiting third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which allowed users to sell restaurant slots for exorbitant prices. This legislative move has been termed a “major victory for the hospitality industry” by Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association. She stated that it would help mitigate competition for reservations and protect restaurants from costly cancellations.
Despite such legislative efforts, the post-COVID surge in demand for popular dining experiences remains relentless, leaving a high number of establishments fully booked. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India has observed this trend firsthand through her work with ultra-wealthy clients, including notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey.
India emphasized that gaining access to exclusive restaurants—and other high-demand experiences like hotels and yachts—depends largely on knowing what clientele desire and establishing relationships with the venues that can accommodate them. She noted a shift in consumer preferences away from traditional fine dining towards trendy spots, where the appeal often lies in the exclusivity and social status associated with securing a reservation rather than just the quality of food.
For those determined to secure a reservation at New York’s hardest-to-get dining spots, India’s insights may provide valuable guidance.