The Rise of Solo Dining

The “solo dining” movement is on the rise as more people are dining out by themselves whether by choice for a peaceful meal or out of necessity while traveling for business or pleasure. Just ask the Michelin guide inspector about it…

Eating out alone is shedding its stigma and becoming more socially acceptable and even celebrated at many restaurants. It may seem daunting at first, but dining by yourself can be a hugely enjoyable experience. Once you’ve moved past any initial discomfort, it becomes something not to be endured but to be savoured.

According to recent surveys, around one-third of Brits dine by themselves at times. This coincides with an increase in single-person households across the UK. Restaurants have taken notice, with the movement growing steadily across dining spots in Britain.

London is a busy place, and it can be so uncommon a feeling to be without company that it can be a daunting prospect, especially when dining bit some venues have embraced the change of the customer landscape while some others made headlines in charging for 2 covers if you dine on a table designed for 2 guests, hiding behind the potential loss of revenue.

It is a matter of environment and needs: the atmospheric ambiance of Barrafina is better set up for this than the raucous nature of any Wetherspoon’s pub which is probably best avoided when alone.

The solo dining trend reflects the modern reality that people across ages and demographics, including rising numbers of British singles and elderly widows, are eating alone more often whether regularly or when the mood strikes. Forward-thinking UK restaurants are evolving their spaces, menus, and services to not just accommodate but actively honour and celebrate the solo diner.