We’ve all been there—craving a perfect night out, only to hear those dreaded words: “Sorry, we’re fully booked.” Making a restaurant reservation should be simple, but if you want a great table, a stress-free experience, and maybe even a little VIP treatment, there’s more to it than just calling ahead.

Whether you’re booking for a date night, a family gathering, or a special celebration, knowing how to reserve smartly can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are seven tips to help you score the perfect spot and make the most of your night out.

1. Book Early—But Not Too Early

You’ve probably heard that booking far in advance is the best way to secure a table. While that’s true for popular spots, there’s also a sweet spot for reservations.

For Trendy Restaurants: Book as soon as reservations open—some places allow booking 30, 60, or even 90 days ahead. Check their website or social media to find out their policy.

For Less Busy Spots: Booking 3–5 days in advance is often enough. Calling too early can sometimes mean they don’t have their schedule fully planned, and you might miss out on the best tables.

Pro Tip: If the restaurant uses a booking platform like OpenTable or Resy, set an alert for your desired time. You’ll get a notification if a table becomes available.

2. Be Strategic with Your Reservation Time

The time you choose can make or break your dining experience.

• Early Dinners (5:00–6:00 PM): Great if you want a quieter, more relaxed experience. Ideal for family outings or pre-theater meals.
• Prime Time (7:00–8:30 PM): The busiest and hardest to book. You’ll feel the restaurant’s full energy, but it may be noisier.
• Late Night (9:00 PM or later): Perfect for night owls. The crowd thins, and you might enjoy more personalized service.

Pro Tip: If you’re flexible, book for a weekday instead of a weekend. Tuesdays through Thursdays are usually less crowded, and you’ll get better service.

3. Call the Restaurant—Don’t Just Rely on Apps

While apps are convenient, they don’t always show the full picture. Some restaurants hold tables for phone reservations or walk-ins.

Why Call?

• You can ask about special seating options (like a table by the window or a cozy booth).
• You can mention if it’s a special occasion (more on that below!).
• You might get a table even if the app says they’re fully booked.

Pro Tip: Call during off-peak hours (between 2 PM and 4 PM) when staff have more time to help you.

4. Mention Special Occasions (But Be Subtle)

Celebrating something special? Let them know! Restaurants often go the extra mile for birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals. But here’s the key: be genuine and polite—no need to demand anything free.

What to Say:

• “We’re celebrating our anniversary. Would it be possible to have a quiet table with a nice view?”
• “It’s my friend’s birthday. If there’s a way to make it special, we’d really appreciate it!”

Restaurants love making your experience memorable, and sometimes you’ll get a complimentary dessert or a prime seat without even asking.

5. Be Clear About Your Preferences (But Stay Polite)

If you have preferences—like outdoor seating, a window view, or a booth—mention them when you book. But remember, requests are requests, not demands.

How to Ask:

• “We’d love a table near the window if available.”
• “We prefer outdoor seating, but we’re happy to be flexible.”

Pro Tip: If your seating preference is a dealbreaker, confirm it when they call to confirm your reservation.

6. Confirm Your Reservation—And Be On Time

Many restaurants now use confirmation systems via text or email. Always confirm, especially if you booked far in advance.

Why It Matters:

• Some restaurants cancel unconfirmed reservations to avoid no-shows.
• If you’re late, they may give your table away—especially during peak hours.

Pro Tip: Aim to arrive 5–10 minutes early. It shows respect for their time and increases your chances of getting a prime seat.

7. Be Kind and Build Relationships

This is the ultimate tip that many people overlook. Treating the staff with kindness and respect goes a long way. Servers and hosts often remember regulars or guests who are polite and appreciative.

Ways to Build Goodwill:

• Tip well, especially if they went above and beyond.
• Leave a positive review if you enjoyed your experience.
• If you plan to return, let them know: “We had a wonderful time. Can’t wait to come back!”

Pro Tip: If you become a regular, you might even get priority reservations or complimentary extras without asking.

Bonus Tip: What to Do If You Can’t Get a Reservation

If your favorite spot is fully booked, try these:

• Join the waitlist: Many apps like Resy let you hop on a waitlist.
• Walk-in early: Some restaurants keep tables for walk-ins, especially if you arrive right when they open.
• Dine at the bar: Many bars offer the full menu, and you might get quicker service and great conversation.

Final Thoughts: Reservation Success Is About More Than Just Booking

A great restaurant experience starts long before you sit down. By planning ahead, being polite, and knowing a few insider tricks, you’ll not only get a table—you’ll get a great table.

So next time you’re booking a reservation, keep these tips in mind. Who knows? You might just find yourself seated at the best spot in the house with a surprise dessert on the way.