How to Secure Hard-to-Get Reservations at Restaurants

Securing reservations in the more fashionable restaurants requires perseverance. Check out these tips from a restaurateur.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Restaurant Guides
• Old Newspapers
• Credit Cards And Loans

1. Read reviews of the restaurant beforehand. Look for any clues on to how to get a reservation.

2. Learn the reservation policy of the restaurant. Ask questions and inquire as to when there may be openings.

3. Find out how long it generally takes to get a reservation and work within the scheduling constraints.

4. Be proactive and tenacious. Be the first person to call in the morning and call numerous times if that's what it takes.

5. Try to get a reservation on one of the slower nights: Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

6. Become an asset to the restaurant. Let the staff know you'll come when they have an unexpected opening (if someone has cancelled a reservation, for example).

7. Go up the hierarchy if you are not getting results. Ask to speak to the maître d' or owner if you get no response from the host.

8. Find out if the restaurant sponsors special events, such as wine tastings, and put your name on a mailing list.

Tips & Warnings

• Some restaurants have strict reservation policies (for example, reservations are only accepted one month in advance).
• Wait until the hubbub has died down after the restaurant has received a positive review in the newspaper. Two or three weeks later may be a better time to call.
• Taking a cancellation may be your only option.
• Special events like wine tastings are a way to experience a restaurant without being a victim of its popularity.
• Always be friendly and polite when trying to get a reservation.
• There are no slow nights when it comes to fashionable or trendy restaurants.

on 11/22/2005 For restaurants that require credit cards to hold a reservation, it is very important to ask for the cancellation policy. If you do not show up without calling, you could be charged a huge fee, especially at a trendy restaurant.