Do you ever dine solo?

Question

Do you ever go to a nice restaurant alone?
I'm not talking about McDonald's or Subways.

I personally never set foot in a nice place alone since I'd feel awkward.

Answer 1

No but you could always just sit at the bar and order. You wouldn't feel that awkward because you could watch TV.

Answer 2

I did a couple of nights ago because I was running late and didn't have time to fix dinner or make plans to meet anyone else. But you're right- it is really awkward. Normally, I would just get something to go and eat at home (being single) alone, but I'd just recently moved and my dining furniture was not all set up yet. So... had little choice, really.

It's not so much the fact I'm alone though, (I don't mind being solo), just the self-consciousness that comes from knowing others would take it the wrong way (or you think they would, anyway): i.e- there's something wrong with you, that's why you're alone, or whatever.

Then again, if you're flamboyant enough about it and act like it's the most natural thing in the world and that there's absolutely nothing wrong in enjoying a good meal by one's self, then that usually takes a bit of the awkwardness out of it.

Answer 3

As a waitress in many fine dining restaurants I can say that I have had quite a few regulars who dined solo. Most either brought something to read (or puzzle books to work on), or just sat and enjoyed themselves. I have also dined solo - both at the bar or a restaurant and in the dining room. A good server will never make you feel uncomfortable, in fact you may get slightly more personal service. Just don't sit and talk on your cell phone all night (that's just rude). Hope this helps.

Answer 4

Not to a nice restaurant, just fast food or pizza. The only exception would be if I was reimbursed for food if I was on a business trip, then I would eat somewhere nice, or as nice as possible without going over the meal reimbursement allowance. I haven't had any trips like that in a very long time.

Answer 5

i dine solo once in a while. i try not to be seated near large groups of people or many children. i usually take something out of my purse to read while i'm waiting for my food, or i redo the numbers on my cell phone directory. there is no noise and my phone is turned off while doing this so there is no noise. i think it's rude and embarrassing to call someone or answer a call and talk loud while i'm waiting.. this is great as you update your cell phone directory and delete the numbers you no longer need, so this saves you time that could be used for other things. i order something that is not real difficult to eat but tasty as to not draw attention to myself. i'm talking about a sit down restaurant but not a pricey or classy place as these places really take longer and more stares and are more for 2 people or more. thank you. Marilyn B..

Answer 6

I know what you mean Tom, I can't even go into a McDonalds alone, just feels too lonely for me, It's like I have to have someone to enjoy the meal with, I guess the best part of dinner is enjoying it with friends and mainly the talk.

Answer 7

I've eaten alone in a sit-down restaurant a few times. It's always a little awkward

Answer 8

It's not awkward at all. Go in, look around you and you will see lots of people dining alone. Dining alone does not mean you haven't a friend in the world. It merely means, you are hungry.

Answer 9

Try a sushi bar or go to a nice restaurant for lunch. A lot of people have to eat lunch by themselves so you don't stick out so much.

The older you get, the more you get used to eating alone - especially if your job involves traveling alone.

Answer 10

I have on a few occasions, but when I do I take a book with me. This way I don't feel so alone. It looks to others that I am just wanting some alone time or me time.

Answer 11

Sure all the time. I travel a lot for work. I prefer sitting at the bar when I am alone. You find a lot of solo diners there. Its no big deal... you shouldnt feel awkward.