The Art of Dining Alone

Inevitably there are restaurants I want to go to SO BADLY I can taste it (pun intended) and either financially, logistically or physically I cannot find someone to go with me.

In those such cases I dine alone.

Obviously there are days where I feel like I could kick and scream like a two year old throwing a temper-tantrum in Toys ‘R Us during Christmas time and need to calm down with a nice glass of wine, a fabulous dessert, a book and have a relaxing afternoon.

In those such cases I dine alone.

In fact, unlike most people I don’t mind flying solo every once in a while. Sometimes I relish in it. An hour or two of complete solitude; turning off my phone, dining at a restaurant I’ve been dying to try, or just happen to pass by, and indulging in a little “me” time. Oprah would so be proud. But in all seriousness, sometimes dining alone has its perks.

Having experienced enough of these situations I’ve come to the conclusion on certain things. It’s ALL in the confidence. Obviously if you’re a little self-conscious you’re screwed, but that’s something I’ve never really had a problem with …

With confidence, comes the smile, the attitude, and … the free goodies. Yes, complimentary drinks, desserts, things taken off bills, flirtation from cute un-busy waiters, and undivided attention from the waitstaff.

Usually your meal comes quickly, because most servers assume you don’t like being alone. So if you’re hungry (which I always seem to be) this is a fabulous perk.

If you’re single and happen to stag a cute waiter, smiling can’t hurt … it might even secure you a number.

If you’re really lucky often times people will take “pity” on you and snag you free drinks, dessert, and/or parts of your meal. On many occasions free dessert comes. At Balthazar single lady diners are given unlimited free champagne. Let them pity you, by all means!

So when you’re craving your favorite meal from somewhere and you can’t find anyone to indulge you. Or if you’re moments away from a mental breakdown. Take a minute, ten minutes, or a few hours, and relax. Eat the cake, drink the cocktail, and embrace the solitude. Might teach you a thing or two about yourself … hey and a free anything for a 23 year old with a limited salary is good, fabulous in fact.