Yes, it’s perfectly normal to go to fine dining alone. This trend has already gained popularity worldwide. Many millennials and Gen Zs view it as a form of self-care.
Dining has been seen as a communal experience. But modern times have flipped the narrative.
Dining solo is no longer a sign of sadness or loneliness. It’s simply a matter of preference.
So, if dining solo has been on your mind, we encourage you to go ahead with full enthusiasm without worrying about what other diners or hotel staff might think.
Alternatively, if you’re on a work trip and in two minds whether to order a pizza from room service or fine dining solo, we say go for the latter. It’s an experience worth having.
To help you ease into this experience, we’ve put together nine tips.
9 Essential Tips for Enjoying Solo Fine Dining
Choose a Known Restaurant
When you select a restaurant you’ve visited before, you feel comfortable already.
You know the quality of the food and service. The staff might also recognise you and make conversation with you. This familiarity reduces any anxiety about your fine dining experience.
Make a Reservation
Booking your table in advance eases any anxiety about finding a table just for yourself. It also helps the restaurant prepare for your visit and make your dining experience smoother.
When you call or book online, mention you’re dining alone.
Ask for a comfortable seating option, like a cosy corner, a spot with a nice view, or a seat at the bar.
The bar offers a relaxed and social setting for solo diners. You can have a light conversation with the bartender or simply enjoy watching the restaurant’s activity. Plus, the bar area often feels more dynamic and social.
Dress Comfortably Yet Appropriately
Just because you’re dining alone doesn’t mean you should skip the restaurant’s dress code or settle for anything less than your best.
Following the dress code means you:
- Value the restaurant’s atmosphere.
- Feel like part of the dining experience, not just to grab a quick meal.
Choose an outfit that’s comfortable for sitting and eating, and aligns with the restaurant’s level of formality.
Example: For Apéritif Restaurant, you can opt for smart to formal attire. We just ask that you refrain from wearing sports clothing or beachwear, like singlets and flip-flops.
Arrive Early
When you arrive before rush hour, you experience a quieter atmosphere.
You can settle in at your own pace, browse the menu, and soak up the ambience without feeling rushed. The staff will have more time to guide you through the menu and offer food and wine pairings without hurrying you. This peaceful setting helps you feel more at ease and fully enjoy your meal.
Engage With the Staff
It’s good to interact with the staff. This can make you more comfortable and confident. But there are some do’s and don’ts that you must be aware of:
| The Do’s of Interacting With the Staff | The Don’ts of Interacting With the Staff |
| Ask the staff about any specials they’d suggest, the best wine pairings, or the restaurant’s etiquette. | Don’t be overly loud or have a long conversation during busy times. |
| Be courteous in your conversations. Extend a friendly “Hello” at the start and a polite “Thank you” towards the end of your meal. | Don’t flirt or make overly personal comments. |
| Engage in light conversation, like asking about the restaurant’s history or about the chef, if the staff is open to it. Keep conversations brief and to the point. | Don’t make suggestive comments or ask for personal contact information. |
Enjoy the Ambience
When you’re on your own, you’re in full control to observe and appreciate the fine dining ambiance and intricacies. It’s not just about passing time while you wait for your meal. Instead, this can enhance your dining experience.
When you look at the décor, lighting, and layout, you may feel more drawn to the restaurant. What seemed unfamiliar at first can become inviting and comfortable.
Plus, your observations might give you some conversation starters with the staff, if you feel like chatting. They’re often happy to share details about their restaurant.
Engage in People-Watching
People-watching can be a fun and engaging way to pass the time while dining alone.
Watching other diners engage in conversations, share meals, or celebrate special occasions, and observing how the staff interact with guests, helps you feel like you’re part of the restaurant’s social scene. You feel less isolated even though you’re on your own.
Order What You Like
When dining alone, it’s your time to indulge in the foods you love. Don’t feel pressured to order a full meal or try dishes you’re not excited about just because you have to conform to a certain dining standard. If you just want a starter or a couple of small plates, that’s perfectly fine. It’s your time to order exactly what you want. Treat yourself and order that Michelin Star dish that you had your eye on, without any of the guilt!
When fine-dining solo, it’s easy to get carried away and order too much food. Stick to a few dishes. Focus on quality over quantity.
Don’t let your meal drag on. Prolonging your meal can disrupt the restaurant’s flow and make you seem inconsiderate to the staff. The best fine dining restaurants often have busy schedules, and tables are usually in high demand. Enjoy your meal at a comfortable pace but be mindful of the time.
Meanwhile, we suggest you leave your comfort zone. Solo dining is a great chance to explore new dishes or cuisines you haven’t tried before. This is your chance to be adventurous with your food choices without worrying about anyone else’s opinions.
Bring a Distraction
Bringing a book or tablet helps you feel less self-conscious and awkward. It gives you something to focus on while you wait for your meal, making the time pass more pleasantly.
Of course, you’ll have your phone with you too, and you could use it for reading, watching movies, or taking the occasional selfie. However, we recommend not making phone calls while you’re dining, as this can disturb other diners near your table and disrupt the restaurant’s atmosphere.
