What are the chances for a walk-up seating at American Girl Place NYC?

Question

We tried to get a reservation for American Girl Place NYC in a few weeks. Apparently, you have to make the reservations a few months in advance. The customer service person suggested coming early and giving our name to the hostess and *maybe* they could get us in.

I hate to have 2 nine year old girls thinking they may being having lunch - when we don't have a reservation.

Answer 1

From my limited experience, your chances aren't very good.  It's very popular and a "destination" dining experience, so there aren't many no-shows.

I would suggest that you downplay the lunch aspect, and play up the other things to do at the American Girl Store, including shopping, paying to have your photo taken with your favorite doll, etc.  Casually mention that they are already full for lunch, but that if the girls would like you'll check when you arrive to see if there were any cancellations, making sure that they realize that it's a long-shot.  Nine year olds should be able to understand that.

Also, if you haven't already, show them the website so that they will be familiar with the store before you arrive.

Here's a link:

http://www.americangirl.com

By the way, are you aware that there is a huge Build-a-Bear location just a couple of blocks down 5th Avenue?  If you go to American Girl, also visit Build-a-Bear.