How to Make Eating Alone Less Scary

Eating alone can be daunting, but it can also be a great opportunity to enjoy your company and indulge in delicious food.

After going on multiple solo trips, I’ve come to really enjoy eating alone, but I didn’t start out that way. I’ll share tips for getting more comfortable eating alone so it’s more approachable!

Eating Alone While Traveling Solo

If you’re traveling solo, eating alone is almost inevitable. Walking into a crowded restaurant by yourself can be daunting, especially if you’re in a new city or country. However, with a little practice, dining alone can become a pleasant and even enjoyable experience.

Remember, you’re not the only one who’s ever eaten alone while traveling. Many people do it, and with a little practice, you might even prefer it. It’s now something I look forward to!

It can feel lonely at times eating alone as well, especially since making friends solo in a new place can be difficult.

Is it Normal to Eat Alone?

Yes! It is absolutely normal to eat alone, and everyone does it many times in their life. You won’t always have company to share a meal, so it’s important to try and get comfortable with that experience.

However, this definitely takes practice if you’ve never or rarely eaten alone. But there are lots of reasons why eating alone is great!

Benefits of Eating Alone

• Enjoy your own company
• Try new foods or restaurants more frequently
• Avoid the stress of coordinating schedules with others
• You can order what you want
• Take in your surroundings that you otherwise might miss eating with company
• Get a table without waiting long times (thank you, bar seating)
• Opportunity to chat with waitstaff, chefs, etc.
• Eat at your own pace

Tips for Eating Alone

1. Get comfortable eating alone
2. Start casual
3. Choose the right restaurant
4. Go during less busy hours
5. Make reservations
6. Bring entertainment (not phone related)
7. Practice being present
8. Focus on the food
9. No one cares

@andreagoesplaces

Tips for eating alone from a frequent solo diner!!! 🍽 Eating alone can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time! These are some ways that help make it a little easier. ☻ #diningalone #eatingsolo #eatingalone #eatingaloneisok #solotravel #solotraveler

♬ Cupid – Sped Up – EXE ROHIT

Get Comfortable Eating Alone

Baby steps! If dining in a restaurant is intimidating, start eating alone by taking away food and eating at a nearby park or in public seating. The goal is to get comfortable eating alone in general.

Start Casual

One way to make the experience less intimidating is to start by finding a casual spot, such as a café or a food court, where there are other solo diners. This can help you feel less conspicuous and more at ease.

Choose the Right Restaurant

Look for places with bar seating or communal tables to avoid feeling isolated. You may also want to consider restaurants with outdoor seating or a view to people-watch.

Go During Less Busy Hours

Eat during non-peak hours for a less crowded environment. Waitstaff will also be less stressed and let you take your time eating!

Make Reservations

Make a reservation for one if possible; some places will only let parties of 2+ reserve, but booking for one makes it easier to navigate eating alone in restaurants. A table will be ready for you when you walk in versus walking in without one and discussing with the waitstaff.

Bring a Book or Other Entertainment

Having something to occupy your mind can make you feel more comfortable in a public space. Try to avoid using your phone and “doom scrolling.” Most of the time, scrolling perpetuates anxiety.

Practice Being Present

Embrace your surroundings and enjoy the people-watching while you eat. Take in the sights and sounds of the restaurant or the street outside, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.

Focus on the Food

Eating alone is an excellent opportunity to focus on and appreciate your food. Notice the smells, visuals, tastes, feelings, etc., of your food. Not only are you practicing being present now, but you’ll also appreciate the time you have more.

No One Cares

Know no one cares you are alone; people are more preoccupied with themselves. People glancing at you is often done without thought, so don’t worry about what other people are doing.

Progress is Not Linear

If you’ve never eaten alone before or are uncomfortable with it now, it’s okay! But also, I want to add that progress is not linear. Even now, there are some days when eating alone is anxiety-inducing. Some days are better than others.

But what matters is consistency. The more you dine alone, the easier it gets (trust me).

Practice Eating Alone

Eating alone doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. With the right mindset and simple tips, you can enjoy a delicious meal and your own company. So next time you find yourself without dining companions, embrace the opportunity to treat yourself to a solo dining experience.