Everything You Need to Know About Solo Dining as a Solo Date

Who would have thought that dining alone could be such an enjoyable experience? I certainly didn’t – until I began treating myself to luxury dining solo dates. It did feel strange (and very nerve-wracking) at first, but now it’s something I try to do at least twice a year. Here’s everything you need to know about enjoying a meal on your own.

Is Solo Dining “Sad?”

The first time I mentioned to a friend that I was taking myself out to eat, her response was, “Aww, that’s cute, but sad,” followed by something like, “I have friends, so I would never!” This, of course, made me wonder what everyone else would think about it. Is it really sad and quite pathetic? Should I just wait until I can find a friend to join me?

Solo dining has been beneficial to me in so many ways that I now think it’s impossible for anyone who’s given it a fair try to consider it “sad.” It has: 

• Boosted my sense of independence as I no longer feel like I NEED to wait for others to enjoy a good meal!
• Allowed me to be more selfish in where I choose to dine, as I no longer have to consider the food and location preferences of others.
• Removed any concerns around splitting the bill with friends who are significantly bigger spenders than myself or on a far tighter budget.
• Increased my confidence in going out and experiencing new activities on my own, outside of solo dining.
• Bought me a new sense of joy from pushing myself out of my comfort zone and doing something I once never thought I would.

So, if you’re hesitant about going on your first solo dining experience because you’re worried about being judged as “sad,” remember these benefits, give it a try, and see how you feel afterwards.

3 Things to Consider Before Your Solo Dining Experience 

If you were going on a date with someone else, you’d plan ahead, right? The same goes for a solo date. Here are three things to consider before your solo dining experience:

1. Find free time: Choose a date when you’re free from any responsibility and have plenty of time to fully enjoy your solo dining experience. There’s nothing worse than having to rush through your meal because you have somewhere else to be—trust me, I learned this the hard way during my first solo restaurant experience on my work lunch break. Make sure you give yourself more than enough time to order as much food and drink as you like without feeling rushed.
2.  Make a reservation: Choose your restaurant wisely—find one that fits your budget and offers food you’ll enjoy. Do some research on TikTok for the best spots in the area you want to visit, and check the menu beforehand to ensure there’s something you want to eat that’s within your budget. Be sure to make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment—nothing’s worse than walking in on the day and being turned away (another scenario I’ve experienced first hand).
3.  Plan your outfit: Girl, just like any other date, this is a special occasion and a chance to look and feel your best. Choose an outfit that makes you feel exactly that way!

Tips For Maximising Enjoyment During Your Solo Dining Experience

Yes, the food plays a big role in your dining experience, but it’s not the only thing! Here are a few more things to consider to make the most of your solo trip to the restaurant.

Bring something to keep you busy while waiting for your food: You didn’t leave the house just to stare at your phone the whole time! Bring something engaging to do while you wait for your food, whether it’s an activity book, a novel, or a sketchbook—whatever you fancy. This will not only help pass the time but also provide a sense of comfort and purpose, making you feel more at ease.

Document your experience: Take photos and jot down notes about your meal as you go. How did the main course taste? Was anything missing? What ingredients stood out? Could you recreate something similar at home? Food journaling, whether in a physical journal or online, is a great way to remember each solo dining experience and spark new ideas for your own cooking.

Engage with the staff: Just because you’re dining solo doesn’t mean you can’t engage in conversation during your experience. If you’re in the mood for a quick chat, start by asking the restaurant staff for their best recommendations. Depending on where you’re seated, you may also be able to strike up a conversation with nearby diners. These interactions can help you feel more connected and less isolated if you’re feeling lonely at any point.

Focus on yourself and not the opinions of others: It’s natural to feel a bit self-conscious when dining alone, especially if it’s your first time. Remember that most people are too engrossed in their own meals and conversations to notice or judge you. Focus on enjoying your experience, and a time will be had! 

Post-Dining Reflections

The first thing I do after any solo date is grab my solo dating journal and reflect on the entire experience. Answering prompted questions about your dining experience helps you process your thoughts and feelings, and it provides a solid foundation for planning your next solo adventure—whether it’s dining at another restaurant or trying a completely different activity.