How do you get reservations at a place that is already booked up?

Question

I called the place last night to book a reservation for tomorrow night. The manager told me to call back today when they opened ... I called at 2:02 (then opened at 2) they said they were booked up. I talked to the other manager and told him what happeend and he said there is nothing we could do. My friends and I really had our hearts set on this place... is there anything I can do?

Answer 1

You don't reserve a day beforehand, you reserve a week beforehand, duh. There's nothing you can do except be a nuisance around that restaurant.

Answer 2

You might be able to put your name on a wait list?

Answer 3

Best bet is to bribe the host/hostess at the door.

Answer 4

Order takeout or their catering service at your place - although it might be too late for that.

Best thing is to book it for next year, if you really like that restaurant for New Years Eve.

Otherwise, plan B is to have a Food Fest, and everyone bring something and share a meal together at someone's home.

Happy New Year!

Answer 5

Although it seems a bit third-world, bribery is your best bet.  Honestly, if you're willing to pay a little extra (in the form of a bribe) then you're the customer most deserving of the service.  Make sure the bribe is at least 20 dollars, but it should really be more on new years.  tell the hostess how much you really enjoy eating there, and how grateful you'd be to get a seat.  Also, don't necessarily target the hostess if someone else, such as the owner or manager, happens to be standing out there.  Quickly profile all of them, and choose the person most likely to sympathize with you.  Have both a male and female ready with the bribe.  If the host is a young man, send a young lady with the bribe, etc.  Chances are, someone will have canceled, or they'll find a way to accommodate you.  Finally, have a back-up plan in case the bribe doesn't work.