Rao's: The Holy Grail of Reservations
Rao's: Where Legends Are Made (and Reservations Are Mythical)
So, you want to eat at Rao’s, huh? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because you’re about to embark on a quest as challenging as finding the Holy Grail. Rao’s isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an institution, a legend, a place where dreams are made (or shattered).
Let's be honest, getting a reservation at Rao's is like winning the lottery, except instead of money, you win a table. It's a game of chance, skill, and let’s be real, a little bit of luck.
The Rao's Reservation Roulette
There are rumors, whispers, and outright lies about how to secure a table at Rao's. Some say you need to be a mobster, others claim you need to have dined there since the 1920s. Let's dispel some myths:
- Myth 1: Money Talks: Forget it. Cash doesn't buy you a seat at this table.
- Myth 2: Celebrity Status: Being famous might help, but it's no guarantee.
- Myth 3: Online Reservations: Don't even bother checking their website. It's a cruel joke.
The Art of the Waitlist
The closest thing to a reservation system at Rao's is a waitlist. And it's not your average waitlist. This is a waitlist where your name might be on it for decades. It's like a culinary purgatory.
So, what can you do? Well, you can try your luck and call them in January when they supposedly open the books. But be warned, you'll be competing with thousands of other hopeful diners.
The Power of Connections
If you're not blessed with the patience of a saint, your best bet is to know someone who knows someone. Networking becomes an Olympic sport when it comes to Rao’s. Leverage every connection you have, from your great-aunt's hairdresser to your neighbor's dog walker.
Your Best Shot: Hope and Prayer
At the end of the day, getting a reservation at Rao's is more about luck than anything else. So, keep your fingers crossed, offer up a prayer to the patron saint of pasta, and maybe, just maybe, you'll be one of the lucky few to experience this culinary wonderland.
Remember: Even if you don’t manage to snag a table, don’t despair. There are plenty of other great Italian restaurants in New York City. But Rao’s? Well, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.
How to... Rao’s Edition
How to increase your chances of getting a Rao's reservation?
- Start networking now.
- Be patient, very patient.
- Learn to cook amazing Italian food at home.
- Accept that it might never happen.
- Find another incredible Italian restaurant.
Good luck!