The Reservation

By: Rebecca Kauffman

Published by Catapult, 2026-02-24

The Reservation explores the loves and labors of an ensemble of more than a dozen restaurant workers as they strive to get perfect meals to table—for fans of “The Bear,” Elizabeth Strout, and Jennifer Egan Early morning on the day of the most important booking in this august establishment’s history, the discovery of the theft of 22 ribeye steaks roils Aunt Orsa’s. Hers is the finest restaurant in this midwestern college town and Orsa anticipates a large party that will honor a very special guest, the bestselling author, a writer of international renown. And what’s up with the recent Yelp reviews, insulting to frankly terrible? Is Orsa, who wants only to be loved, being sabotaged on several fronts? And now no one is above suspicion, not the pretty Mennonite baker nor the tatted-up hard-ass chef de cuisine nor the various servers nor the great-looking, if unsure, co-ed working as hostess. Rebecca Kauffman's talent for crafting rich, empathetic characters is on full display in The Reservation, where she guides a vibrant cast through a single, high-stakes day in the life of a bustling restaurant. With her signature wit and spirit, Kauffman serves up a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the drama, grace, and grit it takes to bring a beautiful meal to the table—served with a side of chaos.