Restaurant Insiders Reveal Secrets to Snagging Hard-to-Get Reservations

St. Helena: So, you know how it goes. You want to eat at that trendy restaurant, but good luck getting a table. Reservation apps make it easy, but sometimes they just don’t cut it.

Whether it’s a special occasion or just a night out, missing out on a table can be a real bummer. And if it’s a super popular spot, it can feel impossible. But don’t worry, it’s not just for the elite.

Three restaurant pros shared some handy tips to help you land a table at that must-try place. First off, find out when they open for reservations. If you know your date, get in there early.

Rachel Candelaria, the general manager at Press, says they open reservations on a rolling 60-day basis. So, mark your calendar and be ready to book.

Next, think about your dining time. If everyone wants to eat at 7:30 or 8 p.m., try going a bit earlier or later. Restaurants often want to turn tables quickly, so those off-peak times can be golden.

Also, consider swapping a Saturday night for a weekday. Tuesdays and Wednesdays usually have less demand, making it easier to snag a reservation.

Don’t shy away from picking up the phone either. Sometimes, a quick call can get you better results than online booking, especially if you need something last minute.

And if you’re really keen, set up alerts for cancellations on platforms like OpenTable. You never know when a spot might open up.

Lastly, be open to last-minute plans. Cancellations happen, and if you’re quick, you might just score a table.

Once you’ve got that reservation, remember to check how long they’ll hold your table. Most places give you about 15 minutes, so if you’re running late, give them a call.

Arriving early? That’s cool too! You might be able to grab a drink at the bar while you wait. Just check in with the host to see if you can be seated early.

And don’t forget, some restaurants have different rules about whether everyone in your party needs to be there to sit down. It’s always good to ask.