Among the toughest tables to book in the U.S., according to ForbesTraveler.com, are:

• Rao's: Unless you've already got a table reserved there, don't bother. The address and phone number follow, but it's not like you'll be using them anytime soon. 455 East 114th Street, East Harlem, New York 10029; 212-722-6709
• Minibar: Six seats here, where Forbes Traveler says, "It’s not uncommon for the staff ... to find people banging on the door at 8:30 a.m., trying to beat the 9 a.m. opening of the phone reservation line for its 30-day-in-advance seats." 405 8th Street NW, Washington DC 20004; 202-393-0812
• Alinea: "Books up to two months in advance for a weekend spot." 1723 North Halsted Street, Chicago IL 60614; 312-867-0110

Downcast some? Don't despair. The article also has tips for scoring a choice table.