Securing a reservation at New York’s most popular restaurants has become increasingly difficult over the past three years, leaving many food enthusiasts frustrated. The challenge has escalated to a point where even seasoned restaurateurs admit they have no effective tips for securing a table.
According to Joel Montaniel, CEO of booking platform Sevenrooms, some restaurants have become nearly impossible to access. This issue was further highlighted last month when the New York state legislature moved to prohibit third-party booking sites like Appointment Trader, which had allowed users to resell restaurant reservations for inflated prices, similar to practices seen in the concert and sports sectors.
Melissa Fleischut, President & CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, hailed this legislation as a significant achievement for the hospitality industry, aimed at reducing reservation competition and protecting restaurants from costly no-shows.
Despite these legislative efforts, the demand for exclusive dining experiences and luxurious outings continues to exceed supply in the post-COVID era. Travel advisor Jaclyn Sienna India noted that the current landscape sees full bookings across all sectors, from flights to hotels and restaurants.
For over 16 years, India has run Sienna Charles, a travel planning service catering to ultra-wealthy clients, helping them navigate the challenges of securing reservations. She emphasizes that a successful approach involves understanding client preferences and fostering relationships with the restaurants that can meet those needs.
India pointed out a shift in dining trends, stating that clients are less interested in traditional fine dining experiences and more drawn to trendy venues. For many, the appeal lies less in the food itself and more in the status associated with being able to say they dined at a sought-after location.
For those eager to secure a reservation at one of New York’s hardest-to-access restaurants, India’s insights provide a valuable starting point.