10 Ways to Score Reservations at Trendy Restaurants

Julio Neves
October 25, 2024

Securing a reservation at a trendy restaurant can feel like winning the lottery. With top-notch chefs, limited seating, and endless demand, these restaurants book up weeks or even months in advance. However, with the right strategies, a little patience, and persistence, you can increase your chances of scoring a table. In this article, we’ll dive into ten ways you can land a reservation at those hard-to-book hotspots.

1. Set Alerts on Reservation Apps

Several apps and platforms allow you to monitor restaurant availability. Tools like OpenTable, Resy, and Tock not only let you book but also notify you when there are cancellations. Here’s how you can maximize these apps:

• Use the Waitlist or Notify Me Features: Many apps have a “Notify Me” or waitlist feature that alerts you if a table opens up at your chosen time.
• Search for Off-Peak Hours: While it may be challenging to get a 7 PM table, you’re more likely to succeed if you’re flexible with dining earlier (5 PM) or later (9 PM).
• Enable Push Notifications: Make sure notifications are on to respond quickly when an alert arrives. Timing is critical—especially for the most sought-after spots.

If your preferred restaurant uses Resy or Tock, take advantage of their unique “Remind Me” features. These services send alerts about newly released tables that fit your preferences.

2. Call the Restaurant Directly

Old-fashioned, but still effective! Sometimes a phone call can bypass online systems, especially for last-minute cancellations or when extra tables become available. Speak directly to the host or reservations manager and explain your situation politely:

• Ask if they keep a waiting list: Some restaurants have informal waitlists beyond the app-based systems.
• Call at strategic times: Try calling early in the morning or right after lunch when the staff isn’t as overwhelmed.
• Express flexibility: If you’re open to dining at the bar, mentioning it can increase your chances. Many trendy spots reserve bar seating for walk-ins.

A personal touch can sometimes persuade the host to find you a spot they wouldn’t otherwise release online.

3. Make Reservations Far in Advance

Most trendy restaurants open reservations 30, 60, or 90 days in advance. As soon as the calendar becomes available, reservations are snapped up fast. Here’s how you can stay ahead of the crowd:

• Mark the Release Dates: Some restaurants announce their reservation release dates publicly or through their newsletters.
• Book for Large Groups, Then Adjust: If reservations fill up fast, book a table for a larger party (like four) and adjust it to a smaller one later if allowed.
• Use Multiple Devices: Try opening reservation apps on both your phone and computer. Having multiple browsers open gives you an edge during high-traffic times.

Securing a reservation right when it opens means setting reminders and being ready to act quickly—much like buying concert tickets.

4. Dine on Weekdays or Off-Hours

If you’re determined to visit a popular restaurant, adjust your expectations around timing. Peak times (Friday and Saturday evenings) are always packed, but weekday or off-peak dining can give you a better shot.

• Book Monday through Thursday: Reservations are typically easier to secure on less busy nights.
• Lunch Reservations: Some restaurants offer lunch menus or brunch, which may not be as crowded as dinner.
• Late-Night Dining: Some places offer late-night menus or extended hours, making it easier to walk in without a reservation.

Being flexible with the day and time of your visit can be a game-changer.

5. Leverage Credit Card Concierge Services

Premium credit cards such as American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Visa Signature often offer cardholders special concierge services. These services can help you secure reservations, especially at partner restaurants.

• Contact the Concierge: Call the number on the back of your credit card and explain the restaurant you’re targeting.
• Ask for Priority Access: Some cards offer exclusive access to restaurants before bookings open to the public.
• Use Dining Programs: Many cards partner with restaurants to provide cardholders with reservations at peak times or host special dining events.

Using your card’s concierge can open doors that are otherwise shut to the public.

6. Follow the Restaurant on Social Media

Many trendy restaurants announce last-minute availability and cancellations on social media. Platforms like Instagram Stories and Twitter are popular for posting table openings in real time. Here’s how to leverage social media effectively:

• Turn on Notifications: Enable alerts for the restaurant’s posts so you never miss an announcement.
• Engage with the Restaurant: Commenting on posts or messaging politely may help you stand out.
• Monitor Influencer Posts: If influencers often feature the restaurant, they may have the inside scoop on availability.

Restaurants often prefer filling last-minute tables through social media rather than leaving them empty, so stay alert.

7. Try Walk-Ins and Bar Seating

Many trendy restaurants reserve a portion of their seating for walk-ins or bar patrons. If you couldn’t secure a reservation, showing up early or dining at the bar may be a viable option.

• Arrive Early or Late: Showing up right when the restaurant opens or during the final seating window increases your chances.
• Be Willing to Wait: Some restaurants take names for a waitlist, even for walk-ins. Have a drink at a nearby spot while you wait.
• Bar and Counter Seating: If the restaurant has a bar or counter, ask if they offer full service there. Many places serve their entire menu at the bar.

Even the trendiest spots often leave room for guests without reservations, so it’s worth trying.

8. Build a Relationship with the Restaurant

If you plan to dine at a specific restaurant multiple times, building rapport with the staff can help you secure future reservations.

• Get to Know the Host and Staff: Make a good impression on your visit by being polite and tipping generously.
• Become a Regular: Frequent visits can earn you recognition, leading to priority access.
• Join Membership Programs: Some restaurants offer memberships or loyalty programs that guarantee reservations for frequent diners.

Once the staff recognizes you as a loyal customer, you’ll have a much easier time booking coveted tables.

9. Book Through Hotel Concierges

If you’re visiting from out of town, hotel concierges often have insider access to hard-to-get tables. Upscale hotels, especially those partnered with popular restaurants, are a valuable resource.

• Choose a Partner Hotel: Some trendy restaurants reserve tables exclusively for guests from specific hotels.
• Ask for Recommendations: Even if the concierge can’t get your first choice, they may suggest a comparable restaurant that’s just as trendy.
• Give Plenty of Notice: Contact the concierge as early as possible—they often have better luck securing tables in advance.

A friendly concierge can be your best ally in navigating the competitive restaurant scene.

10. Use Cancellation Services and Bots

For high-demand restaurants, cancellation tracking services like Table Sweep or automated bots can monitor and grab reservations that become available.

• Sign Up for Services like Table Sweep or OpenTable Cancellations: These tools scan for canceled reservations and notify you instantly.
• Consider Paid Bots: Some reservation bots, although controversial, are highly effective. Be cautious, though—using them may violate some restaurant policies.
• Check Frequently: People cancel reservations all the time, often at the last minute. Keep refreshing the reservation system for openings.

If you’re persistent, these services can help you snag reservations even at the most exclusive restaurants.

Conclusion

Securing a reservation at a trendy restaurant doesn’t have to be impossible. Whether it’s setting alerts, calling directly, leveraging hotel concierges, or using social media, there are multiple ways to increase your chances. Be flexible with dates and times, build relationships with the restaurant, and don’t shy away from walk-ins if all else fails. Persistence and creativity are key—and the reward is a memorable dining experience at some of the best restaurants in town.

With these ten strategies, you’re well-equipped to land that coveted table. So go ahead, make your plan, and get ready to savor every bite!