Attack?
I have been experimenting and keeping track of this. I’ve been purposely going to restaurants during non busy times without ADRs. There is no universal policy. Some restaurants are obstinate, and independently operated like La Hacienda. Some just have poorly trained hosts, who are cranky. They will seat you if you are persistent - Olivia’s. Grand Floridian Cafe looked irritated, but sat us after they put everything into some system.
My guess is it has to do with some non flexible computer system that is tracking everything. This is why there is a 15 min delay no matter what. I don’t think it has to do with servers. They can’t rush people in with a 15 min heads up.
Last June at Olivia’s, there were 5 servers standing around doing nothing begging me to sit down. I almost left because the host was rude. After I sat down, my server tried to get my order quickly so she could keep me. Alas, she got sent home. A second server took over. Not a server shortage, but a customer shortage. If the host was nicer, they may get more business. It definitely looks like unproductive software to me.
Same thing happened at Skipper Canteen. We walked up. We were asked if we had an ADR. They were frustrated we didn’t have one because of if the software. But, these two young ladies were more competent, and assured me they would have a spot for our party of 8. After probably 15 mins, we were seated in a near empty restaurant. The servers were thrilled to see us.
This supported by The OKWlover story above. 15 mins for the software to cycle. It’s ridiculous really. Some places line Marrakesh don’t have this problem. It seems like Tokyo Dining does though. They are empty often, but I still have to sit for 15.
Boatwrights is really a mess. Probably just bad management.
Of course going to a crowded restaurant with no ADR with 4-8 people is stupid. But last summer I walked up to Le Cellier without ban ADR solo at 7:00 pm and they sat me After 15 mins without even batting an eye or complaining.
So I think it varies from restaurant to restaurant, owner to owner, host to host, time of day and crowds. I will continue to eat well without ADRs.
I’d things get difficult, I find a lounge.