Tips for solo dining in San Francisco

Flying solo this week? Book a table for one and let the bread basket keep you company.

State of the plates: Solo dining is on the rise and I'm not surprised. In many cases, it's about self-care. I eat out by myself pretty often.

Here are a few things I've learned along the way:

🍸 Grab a seat at the bar. It's usually the easiest place to snag a spot without a reservation, and if you're lucky, you'll get a front-row view of the kitchen. I've also found bartenders are often happy to answer menu questions or offer recommendations.

• Plus, it's a great way to strike up a conversation with a stranger (if that's what you're looking for).

⏰ Go during off-hours. There's less waiting, a calmer atmosphere and more time to enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

📚 Bring something to do — but stay open. I usually have a book or my phone with me, but I try not to disappear into it the entire time. Some of my favorite solo meals have included unexpected conversations with staff or the people sitting nearby.

🍰 Treat yourself: There's something especially satisfying about ordering dessert and lingering over a sweet treat when you're not trying to split it.

💁"86" those insecurities: No one cares that you're eating solo. Everyone else is focused on their own meal, and once you realize that, being by yourself becomes one of the most relaxing ways to experience a restaurant.

🍽️ My go-to solo spots: I love grabbing a counter seat at Nopa or Lovely's, getting cozy at Palmer's Tavern, eating mafaldine at Pasta Supply Co., grabbing fajitas at Tia Margarita or keeping it casual with a burger and a gin and celery at ABV.

• You can also never go wrong with a glass of wine and dessert at Zuni Café.

The bottom line: Dining alone is one of my favorite ways to slow down, try a new spot, go to one of my favorite restaurants or enjoy a great meal at my own pace.