If you are traveling alone or just like to eat out more than your travel companions, then you might just be tempted to dine solo. For some, this can be rather uncomfortable and cause them anxiety as they just aren’t sure if they are doing the right thing and it’s socially acceptable. If you plan on dining solo on your next vacation, check out these tips so that your dining experience is as pleasant as possible.
- Make Reservations
Just because you will be dining solo it doesn’t mean that you are ensured a table reservation or even a table that you like. This is why it’s necessary to make reservations. Whether you will be making them online or over the phone, specify that you will be dining by yourself and your preference for seating. You don’t want to end up at a tiny table in the corner just because you are eating by yourself. - Bring Something With You To Keep Yourself Occupied
When you are eating alone there may be times to where you are rather bored. Sitting around waiting for your food isn’t all that exciting and there may not be many people to talk to. Make sure your phone is fully charged so that you can use it. If you are trying to take a break from electronics, bring a book. If you are traveling, why not bring a journal so that you can write about all you have seen and done. These items are also great deterrents if you want to just be alone and not socialize with other people that are sitting around you. - Choose The Right Restaurant
Let’s face it, not every restaurant you go to will be a great choice for solo diners. There are some restaurants that are geared towards couples or families. While you certainly can still eat at these places, you might just find that you are rather uncomfortable. You can avoid this by reading reviews to determine the general atmosphere of a restaurant and whether or not it’s a good place for solo diners to eat at. Something with a bar is a nice option as it’s easy to have conversations with the bartender and guests around you. Often time, bar menus can be cheaper than the regular menu. Sports bars, noodle bars, and sushi bars also also popular options. Outdoor cafes are a great way to people watch and enjoy your surroundings. If you love the beach or gardens, consider a restaurant with a view. Here is a helpful post on the best apps to find food while traveling. - Visit a Local Market
Some of the best ways to try local foods it to go to a local market or food hall. It’s casual, gives you an opportunity to try several different foods and there are crowds of people all the time. With everything going on, the last thing you feel is lonely. We have lots of helpful posts that you can review like popular spices markets around the world, great outdoor markets to visit while traveling & great markets in the U.S. Make sure and browse are travel tips section for more related posts. - Take a Foodie Tour
Nothing better than to take a cooking class, do wine tasting or bar hopping in a new city. It’s a great way to meet people and there is not the pressure of sitting in one place for long periods of time. - Dine At An Off-Peak Time
If you are a little weary about solo dining, dine at an off-peak time. Go out to eat at lunch to see if you really do feel comfortable eating by yourself. There tends to be a greater chance of more solo diners during this time and it’s easier to fit right in. If you do find that you don’t mind eating by yourself, you can then go out for a solo dinner. You will find that the more times you eat out solo the easier it ends up being. - Be Confident & Enjoy Yourself
Don’t overthink things. The more often you go out on your own, the more comfortable & confident you will feel. It’s normal, and people dine alone all the time.
