Destination restaurants are a highlight of a vacation, more important than the museums and walking tours. Reserve in advance at most of the fine restaurants in the world; some take reservations two months or more in advance.

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Other tips for scoring a great table or reservation overseas:

1. Go online. The time difference, the language barrier—daunting stuff for a would-be diner. Most of the world’s best international restaurants have web sites (many in English) that let you submit a reservation request. Unlike many American restaurants, this seems to be a readily accepted method for booking. include several possible dates and times that will work, number of people and your contact information.

2. Follow the rules. Have a fluent friend make the call, send a fax (in English is fine), or submit your request online. Even if your plans aren’t set in stone, book the table—you can always cancel it later.

3. Stay locally and ask them to score for you. Great hotels have great concierges—with great connections—so ask them to make the call for you. It saves you awkward moments stuttering through your guidebook, hoping you made your intentions clear and successfully nabbed a table. In addition, many international tables save tables for concierges, who they assume will make reservations for their guests.

4. Eat lunch instead. Though lunch isn’t the big meal at most American restaurants, in European restaurants the midday meal is just as popular as dinner. You can plan a day around an elaborate lunch, as many restaurants feature the same offerings (including tasting menus) that they offer at dinner, with all the accoutrements.

5. People cancel. Contact the restaurant the day you want to go and ask if there are any last-minute cancellations. If that doesn't work, walk in anyway (early) without a reservation. Not every restaurant saves tables for walk-ins, but some do. And even if they don't, sometimes they'll take pity on you and give you a spot anyway.