Tips for solo dining in the Twin Cities
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Illustration: Sarah Grillo/Axios
Flying solo this week? Book a table for one and let the bread basket keep you company.
State of the plates: Last month, we asked readers to share their takes and tips on solo dining in light of new data showing it's on the rise.
- As usual, the answers were *chef's kiss.*
The big picture: Many of you really enjoy the experience. Some of you even used words like "divine" and "sublime."
- "Your food can be savored and fully enjoyed without you having to focus on and converse with anyone," Solvay P. wrote. "Dining alone elevates your ability to appreciate all of the aromas and taste all of the flavors."
Zoom in: Here are some crowdsourced suggestions for making the most of your night out alone:
🍸 Pull up to the bar: A single seat can be a less intimidating option than a full table, whether or not you plan to imbibe.
- If available, a stool by the kitchen often provides extra entertainment — and sometimes even leads to a conversation with the chef.
💬 Make a friend: Bartenders and regulars are often happy to chat or offer tips for things to do if you're visiting for work or vacation.
- "If your face isn't shoved into your phone, you usually end up striking up conversations with perfectly great strangers," Heather L. advised.
⏰ Try dining at off-peak times, says James. V., who turns to solo meals to try new spots when his friends are busy.
- "Early or later in the dinner rush could help you not only secure a table, but also won't find you caught in the craze of the dinner shuffle," he said.
📚 Bring a "prop": A book, magazine, journal or even your phone can make for a captivating companion.
- Kelly R. likes watching sports at the bar when dining solo, but bring an e-reader in case the game isn't on: "I can enjoy a delicious meal and get lost in a good book at the same time!"
- Yes, but: Try not to sport headphones: "Listening to the ambiance will help you get comfortable with solo experiences out," Jada O. wrote.
🍰 Treat yourself: And we mean that in the literal sense. "Always get the dessert when dining alone," Jada added. "It will remind you of how much of a treat it is to have some alone time in this crazy world."
- Bonus: There's no obligation to share your meal (or sweets) with anyone when you are out by yourself, Michael M. noted.
🤩 And finally, "86" those insecurities: James L., who travels frequently for work, admitted that his first few times out alone as a younger man felt "awkward and weird."
- Once he got over those fears, he realized the trips give him the opportunity to experience "incredible restaurants" and even meet some new friends along the way, regardless of whether someone was around to join.
The bottom line: "Other dining parties really don't care that you are alone — they are doing their own thing," James wrote. "Embrace the experience and soak up the ambiance — you may never be back so who cares!"