After a brief hiatus, dinner reservations are back and stronger than ever in Lexington and surrounding areas. Experts break down why the practice came back into fashion, and when they're most critical to make.
Once upon a time, you could just walk up to a restaurant and reliably secure a table on the spot. But that fairy tale era has passed in most dining establishments - and places where it hasn't probably aren't worth your time or money, anyway.
In 2026, reservations are once again required in many eateries that did away with the practice a decade ago. The good news? Advances in technology make the practice easier than ever. The bad news? A meal at your favorite restaurant might require a little more planning than expected. The industry experts at Post 1917, an upscale Lexington steakhouse, explain this trend.
After a previous drop off in popularity, dinner reservations are back in a big way. Many restaurants abandoned the practice throughout the 2010s in favor of walk-ins, according to the market watchers at Lavu. Prioritizing customers as they arrive reduced lost profits from no-shows and recouped opportunity costs from last-minute cancellations.
However, during the pandemic, reservations became a must, ensuring capacity and social distancing guidelines were followed. The practice also helped restaurants plan proper staffing levels during this precarious time period. Patrons continued to demand this convenience at higher-end establishments even after restrictions were lifted.
While it was a difficult time, many innovations that grew out of the pandemic help to make life more convenient today. Advancing technology has made reservations easier than ever, through the use of websites and mobile apps. The popular service OpenTable was founded in 1998, but the company and competitors like Resy and SevenRooms are really hitting their stride with customer-focused mobile features made possible by 2020s tech.
Of course, many restaurants still take reservations by phone. And a number do accept walk-ins, if space allows. But in 2026, an online reservation with a digital "paper" trail is the best way to guarantee you get the Kobe beef or pasta bambini you're craving.
If getting a table is non-negotiable, making a reservation is essential in these circumstances and timeframes, according to the experts at Post 1917:
Up to 3 months ahead for Michelin-starred, trendy, or highly-rated restaurants
At least 2 months ahead for special fixed occasions like anniversaries, Valentine's Day, or the holiday season
At least 1 month ahead during peak seasons in popular tourist destinations
1 to 4 weeks ahead on weekends during peak dining hours (7-10 p.m.) at standard restaurants
Mobile apps like OpenTable and Resy can sometimes help squeeze you in at odd times, but there's no substitute for planning ahead. Your favorite farm-to-table steakhouse platter may be worth the wait, but there's no reason to wait any longer than necessary. Post 1917 Lexington City: Lexington Address: 27 Waltham St Website: https://www.post1917.com