Table for one, please!

Our tips & tricks for enjoying your own company

One of the most common things I hear from girlfriends and fellow travelers is: “I could never sit at a table alone.”
The worry is always the same—What will people think of me?

But here’s the thing: picture a woman dining solo. What comes to mind? Do you feel sorry for her… or do you kind of admire her?

Be honest—it’s probably admiration. And that’s your answer, babe. No one’s pitying you for ordering that glass of wine on your own. In fact, most people wish they had your confidence.

Dining alone isn’t sad—it’s liberating. You get to order exactly what you want, linger as long as you like, and soak in the atmosphere without having to share your fries (finally!). It can be a moment of pure indulgence: oysters and champagne, pasta with extra cheese, or yes, two desserts if you feel like it.

Some of my favorite travel memories have come from tables for one—sipping wine in Burgundy, stumbling into a tiny trattoria in Florence, or just people-watching in a Paris café. Dining solo lets you fully tune in: to the food, the room, the city itself.

And here’s the secret: the more you do it, the easier (and more fun) it gets. Restaurants now are super solo-friendly—think cozy bar seating, thoughtful wines by the glass. What feels intimidating at first quickly becomes one of the most empowering things you can do.

So next time you travel, don’t be afraid to book the table. Order what you want, take up space, enjoy the moment. Someone across the room is probably looking at you—not with pity, but with admiration.

Because the woman dining solo? She’s not waiting for anyone. She’s writing her own story. And babe—you’re the main character.

1. Reframe the Experience: Eating Alone is Empowering

Forget the outdated idea that solo diners are lonely or sad. Dining alone is a bold act of independence. It’s not a punishment — it’s a choice. Confident women eat alone because they can. So, when you catch yourself thinking “aww, how sad,” flip that thought to:
“Wow, she’s doing what she wants, when she wants!”

2. Focus on the Best-Case Scenario

It’s natural to imagine the worst when trying something new — this is called catastrophizing. But instead of picturing awkward silences and stares, visualize yourself enjoying a great meal, soaking up the atmosphere, and feeling proud that you did something out of your comfort zone.

3. Do a Trial Run at Home

Before trying it abroad, practice at home. Pick a spot you’ve wanted to try, dress up a little, and go solo. The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Bonus: it’s also a great way to discover new favorite places in your own city.

4. Know Your Comfort Zone

Figure out what makes you feel more at ease:

• Prefer outdoor seating and people-watching? Choose a sidewalk café.

• Need a quieter spot? Try lunch over dinner.

• Hate parallel parking or loud places? Plan ahead to avoid stress.

Tailoring your first solo dining experience to your preferences helps you stay calm and confident.

5. Create a Pre-Meal Ritual

Boost your confidence by getting into a positive mindset before heading out:

• Put on an outfit you love.

• Choose a restaurant you’re genuinely excited to try.

• Repeat a mantra to reframe your anxiety (e.g. “I am excited to try this place”).

• Notice small joys on the way — a cute dog, a favorite song, blooming flowers.

6. Own Your Table

When you arrive, pick the spot that feels best — by a window, in the back, outdoors, or wherever you feel most comfortable. If your ideal table isn’t ready, don’t hesitate to wait for it. Your comfort matters.

7. Stay Present — or Get Playful

Once seated:

• Breathe. Smile. Look around.

• Engage with your surroundings: chat with your server, compliment a stranger’s shoes, or ask for food recommendations.

• Not ready for interaction? Read a book, listen to a podcast, or people-watch.

And if you start to feel self-conscious, try a playful trick: imagine everyone else in the restaurant has a quirky secret life — or even picture them in silly outfits. It breaks the tension and makes the moment lighter.

8. Use Your Phone Guilt-Free (If You Need It)

If you’re feeling awkward or overwhelmed, pull out your phone. Scroll, text, or read — there’s no shame in using it as a crutch until you’re more comfortable. With practice, you might not even need it at all.

9. Celebrate Every Win

No matter how the experience goes — whether you felt totally relaxed or a bit awkward — you did it. That alone deserves a win. Treat yourself to dessert, take a photo, or just give yourself a mental high five.

Bonus: Inspirational Quotes for Solo Diners

“I know what I bring to the table, so trust me when I say I’m not afraid to eat alone.” — Kevin Hart

“Someone who can eat alone is someone who can be alone. Many of us will resort to eating in bad company rather than no company.” — Lauren Martin

“I have friends and love them dearly. But that time alone is valuable to me.” — Samantha Proctor

Bottom line? Eating alone is a skill — and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. Once you get the hang of it, it becomes something you actually look forward to on your travels.