Hardest restaurant reservations to book in the world
Share and Follow

These days, securing a restaurant reservation feels like an extreme sport, with diners having to either endure lengthy waitlists or pay exorbitant prices to purchase reservations from third-party sellers.

It’s therefore unsurprising that interest in these nearly unattainable dining experiences is skyrocketing, as indicated by a recent report from the hospitality technology company, Dojo.

According to Dojo’s latest analysis, which examined data from platforms that resell reservations over a 90-day period, the report highlights the world’s most elusive restaurants, including those in the U.S., by looking at factors such as average wait times, demand, and exclusivity.

The Lost Kitchen in Freedom, Maine, snagged the No. 1 spot — making it the hardest reservation to get in the world.

Potential diners must physically mail a handwritten postcard to be allowed to eat there.

But right behind The Lost Kitchen on the list sits a 130-year-old legendary New York institution: Rao’s, which was ranked the second hardest reservation to snag in the world.

Founded in 1896 and tucked into East Harlem, the red-sauce Italian joint has just ten tables — and none of them are available to the public. Instead, regulars “own” their tables and hand out invitations at their discretion.

These unofficial memberships are passed down like family heirlooms. For outsiders, dining here isn’t about calling ahead — it’s about knowing someone, and even then, you’re lucky if you’re ever invited back.

Across the Atlantic, Spain dominates the international scene with several fine-dining juggernauts. In Barcelona, Disfrutar — which was named the World’s Best Restaurant in 2024 — requires a full year’s notice to snag a reservation.

In the Spanish city of Girona, El Celler de Can Roca attracts diners from all over with its immersive, family-run experience and a staggering 330-day waitlist.

Meanwhile, Mugaritz, the experimental Basque institution, rounds out Spain’s presence at No. 11, reinforcing the country’s reputation for blending innovation with impeccable tradition.

Other high-ranking European entries include Denmark’s world-famous Noma, which — despite its upcoming closure — still commands average resale prices of $1,300.

In the Netherlands, De Librije combines sustainability and three Michelin stars, while France, the UK and Italy also hold their ground with culinary landmarks that test both patience and persistence.

If you want to try your luck at any of these coveted restaurants, you have a few options: email the restaurant directly, ask about walk-in policies or plan your meal months in advance during off-peak seasons, according to Food & Wine.

And yes — for a select few places — you may need to put your creative hat on and write a heartfelt postcard.

For those with deeper pockets, the reservation resale market remains a reliable, but pricey, way in. Just be sure the platform you’re buying from is legitimate, and check local laws before purchasing.

Top 10 hardest reservations in the world:

  1. The Lost Kitchen – Maine, USA
  2. Rao’s – New York, USA
  3. Disfrutar – Barcelona, Spain
  4. House of Prime Rib – San Francisco, USA
  5. El Celler de Can Roca – Girona, Spain
  6. The Bank Tavern — Bristol, UK
  7. Pujol — Mexico City, Mexico
  8. Damon Baehrel — New York, USA
  9. Noma — Copenhagen, Denmark
  10. La Mercerie — Marseille, France

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Illinois appeals court blocks order requiring CBP chief's check-ins

Illinois Appeals Court Halts Mandate for CBP Chief’s Regular Check-Ins

CHICAGO – An appellate court in Illinois has temporarily halted an order…
Trump, China's Xi set face-to-face meeting in South Korea

Historic Trump-Xi Summit Set for South Korea: What This Means for US-China Relations

A highly anticipated face-to-face meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S.…
Illinois lawmakers could take up RTA funding bill in veto session in Springfield as transit agency faces fiscal cliff

Illinois Legislators to Address RTA Funding Bill During Springfield Veto Session Amid Imminent Fiscal Challenges

The legislative session in Springfield has begun, with a significant focus on…
DuPage County food pantries, like Glen House, Northern Illinois Food Bank, worry they can't meet need after SNAP benefits end

DuPage County Food Pantries Struggle to Meet Demand as SNAP Benefits Conclude

In DuPage County, Illinois, local food pantries are bracing for an increase…
Illinois teen dies from complications during dental surgery

Illinois Teen Succumbs to Complications Arising from Dental Procedure

A tragic incident unfolded in Illinois this summer when a 17-year-old girl…

Unusual White Blimp Over San Francisco Identified by Authorities

On Tuesday morning, a striking white airship was seen soaring above the…
Jacksonville University leadership appoints Dr. Lisa Sutherland as future interim president

Dr. Lisa Sutherland to Lead Jacksonville University as Interim President: A New Era Begins

Jacksonville University is preparing for a change in leadership as President Tim…
Category 4 Hurricane Melissa slams into Cuba after hammering Jamaica

Devastating Impact: Hurricane Melissa Rages Through Cuba and Jamaica with Category 4 Fury

Hurricane Melissa struck Cuba early Wednesday after wreaking havoc across Jamaica, where…