Who Owns Tables At Rao's?

Recently, I had the opportunity to dine at Rao’s, a popular Italian restaurant in New York City. As I entered, I saw that the restaurant was packed with people, and the wait time to get a table was around two hours. I wondered who owned the tables at Rao’s and how they managed to get a reservation so easily.

What is Rao’s?

Rao’s is a legendary Italian restaurant located in East Harlem, New York City. It was founded in 1896 and has been a popular spot for celebrities, politicians, and locals for over a century. The restaurant is known for its classic Italian dishes, cozy atmosphere, and limited seating.

Who Owns Tables at Rao’s?

The ownership of the tables at Rao’s is not clear. The restaurant has a loyal following of regular customers who have been coming for years and have established relationships with the staff. These regulars are known as “table owners” and are given priority when making reservations. However, the ownership of the tables is not official, and there is no way to purchase a table or reserve one permanently.

How to Get a Table at Rao’s

Getting a table at Rao’s is notoriously difficult. The restaurant only has 10 tables and is open for dinner six days a week, with no lunch service. The best way to secure a reservation is to know a regular or be a celebrity. However, for those without connections, there are a few options:

1. Call Early

The restaurant only accepts reservations by phone and starts taking them at 10 am each day. It’s best to call as soon as they open to increase your chances of getting a table.

2. Book a Private Party

Rao’s offers private parties for groups of up to 100 people. While it’s more expensive than a regular dinner, it guarantees you and your guests a table for the night.

3. Visit the Hollywood Location

Rao’s opened a second location in Hollywood, California, in 2013. While it’s not the original location, it offers the same menu and atmosphere. Reservations are still difficult, but it’s worth a try if you’re in the area.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Table at Rao’s

Pros:

Priority reservations
Established relationships with staff and regulars
Prestige and exclusivity

Cons:

Expensive
Responsibility to fill the table each night
No official ownership or transferability

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, my experience at Rao’s was excellent. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was cozy and intimate. While I didn’t own a table, I appreciated the history and exclusivity of the restaurant. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience and don’t mind the challenge of getting a reservation, I would highly recommend Rao’s.