Diners in New York City are facing unprecedented challenges when it comes to securing reservations at popular restaurants. Over the past three years, obtaining a seat at the trendiest dining spots has shifted from difficult to nearly impossible for many food enthusiasts.
Joel Montaniel, CEO of the booking platform Sevenrooms, noted in a recent Bloomberg interview that certain restaurants have become almost inaccessible. He shared that when speaking with restaurateurs about tips for obtaining reservations, they often admit they have none to offer.
The intense competition for dinner reservations prompted the New York state legislature to vote last month to prohibit third-party booking platforms like Appointment Trader, which had allowed users to resell restaurant reservations for prices exceeding $200, a tactic typically associated with high-demand concerts and sporting events.
Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed the new legislation as a significant win for the hospitality sector. She believes it will lessen reservation competition and shield restaurants from costly no-shows.
Nonetheless, despite these legislative efforts, the growing demand for trendy and luxurious dining experiences continues to outpace availability. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India highlights that the post-COVID landscape has led to heightened occupancy in all sectors, including restaurants, hotels, and travel experiences.
India, who operates Sienna Charles, a concierge service catering to ultra-wealthy clients, shared insights on navigating the saturated market. With over 16 years of experience and a clientele that includes notable figures like George W. Bush and Mariah Carey, she emphasizes the importance of understanding clients’ desires and building strong relationships with restaurants to secure coveted reservations.
She pointed out a notable trend away from traditional fine dining as clients increasingly prefer vibrant dining atmospheres that focus more on social experience and “fear of missing out” than on the food itself. She remarked that the thrill of securing a reservation has become a status symbol.
For those eager to join the ranks of successful diners and willing to be relentless in their pursuit of bookings, there are a number of New York restaurants that are particularly difficult to access, according to Sienna Charles.