"New Yorkers aren't ones to shy away from lines. We line up for sample sales, limited-edition drops, even a pumpkin-and-rice cronut that sold out five years ago. You name it, we've gotten on line for it. But according to OpenTable's newly-released 2026 Dining Trends Report, there's one line we love the most: the one leading to a restaurant table."
"The new report found that New York City diners are willing to wait an average of 57 minutes as walk-ins-the longest in the country by a wide margin. San Francisco is much less patient, waiting 34 minutes; Miami and Chicago tie at 35; and even famously patient L.A. taps out at 44. New Yorkers, however, will happily stand around for nearly an hour. We're either incredibly devoted or slightly unhinged-and maybe both."
"Part of the reason is that demand is way up. The report notes that overall dining increased 8% year over year, with early bird dining (between 4 and 5 pm) up 13% and group dining up 11%. Tables are scarce and reservations vanish instantly these days. Spontaneity is also back in style. Last-minute bookings are booming and OpenTable notes its "Notify Me" alerts are up 84% nationwide."
New York City diners wait an average of 57 minutes for walk-in restaurant tables, the longest in the United States. San Francisco averages 34 minutes, Miami and Chicago 35, and Los Angeles 44. Overall dining increased 8% year over year, with early-bird dining (4–5 pm) up 13% and group dining up 11%; tables are scarce and reservations vanish quickly. Last-minute bookings are booming and "Notify Me" alerts rose 84% nationwide, with New York leading and Manhattan's Chez Fifi receiving the most alerts. Diners are seeking value and experiences: 61% say dining out will feel more like a treat, experiential dining is up 46%, and anniversary diners spent 40% more.
Read at Time Out New York
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