Going to a Restaurant Alone: How to Feel Less Awkward Dining Solo as a Woman

Going to a restaurant alone can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to feel confident, enjoy your solo meal, and actually have fun dining alone as a woman.

Let’s be real—going to a restaurant alone can feel a little awkward at first. I used to walk past the cutest little cafés thinking, “Maybe I’ll just grab a snack later,” just to avoid sitting down by myself.

But after years of solo travel around Asia, I’ve learned something kind of surprising: eating in a restaurant alone can actually be one of the best parts of your trip. No awkward small talk, no compromises, and definitely no sharing your fries (unless you really want to).

If the idea of dining alone as a woman makes you feel a bit nervous—or just a little weird—you’re not the only one. It’s totally normal. This guide is here to help you feel confident, stay safe, and maybe even start looking forward to your next solo restaurant adventure.

This blog post is all about going to a restaurant alone

Why Going to a Restaurant Alone Feels So Weird (and What Psychology Says About It)

There’s actually a name for that awkward feeling you get when you sit down by yourself: solomangarephobia—the fear of eating alone in public.

Psychologists say it’s because we grow up seeing meals as social. Family dinners, brunch with friends, date nights… eating is usually something we do with someone.

So when you’re eating in a restaurant alone, your brain might flag it as weird or uncomfortable—even if no one around you is actually paying attention. (Let’s be honest, most people are too busy with their own fries to notice.)

The good news? That feeling fades fast. Honestly, by the time your food shows up, you’re probably already settling in and thinking, “Okay, this isn’t so bad.”

It reminds me of the first time I flew alone. I was nervous, but once I did it, I never looked back. Going to a restaurant alone is the same. A tiny leap that leads to so much freedom—and way more confidence than you’d expect.

The Underrated Benefits of Going to a Restaurant Alone

Before we dive into how to make it feel less awkward, let’s talk about why going to a restaurant alone is actually kind of amazing—especially when you’re traveling solo.

Here’s why I genuinely love eating in a restaurant alone:

• Eat wherever you want. Finally try that cute café you saved on Instagram or that noodle spot your Cairo guesthouse recommended.
• Order exactly what you’re craving. Want the spiciest dish on the menu? Or a slice of chocolate cake all to yourself? Go for it—no need to share.
• Set your own pace. Take your time sipping coffee, or finish up fast and get back to exploring. Dining alone as a woman means total freedom.
• Major confidence boost. Every time you walk into a solo restaurant and enjoy the moment, you’re reminding yourself just how capable you really are.
• Shorter wait times. Tables for one usually get seated faster—and sometimes, you’ll score a spot at packed places without a reservation.

Whether you’re trying Egyptian desserts or sipping sunset cocktails on the beach (don’t miss my solo beach hacks), eating alone is one of those things every solo traveler should try at least once.

Ready to feel more confident walking into that restaurant solo? Let’s jump into some simple, confidence-boosting tips.

How to Feel Comfortable Eating Alone: 13 Real Tips That Actually Help

These are the exact tips that helped me go from awkwardly nibbling fries while fake-texting… to confidently booking a solo rooftop dinner in Bangkok.

1. Start Small and Keep It Simple

You don’t have to start with a rooftop dinner or a five-course tasting menu. In fact, I’d say don’t—unless that genuinely sounds like fun to you.

I always recommend starting with something casual and low-pressure. Think a cozy café, a chill lunch spot, or even a street food stall with a bench. No one’s dressing up or expecting anything fancy, and that helps take the pressure off.

Before my first big solo trip, I actually practiced at home. I went to a local café I already knew, just to get used to the feeling of sitting alone. I knew where the bathroom was, I liked the vibe, and that comfort helped so much. You don’t need new surroundings and first-time nerves all at once.

Still not ready to eat alone? Try a small-group food tour with GetYourGuide or Klook. You’ll still get to try the local food—without going fully solo just yet.

2. Do a Little Research Before You Go

The biggest thing that helped me feel confident about going to a restaurant alone? Honestly—just knowing what to expect before I got there.

I’m not saying you need to plan every detail, but a quick peek online can make the whole experience feel way less intimidating. Here’s what I usually check:

• Peak hours on Google Maps. Going just before or after lunch/dinner helps you skip the crowds.
• Menus and food photos, so I know what I’m getting into (especially helpful if there’s no English version).
• Whether it’s solo-diner friendly—some places actually mention this!
• If they take reservations—because nothing feels more awkward than standing around alone at the door

Some of my favorite solo meals have been in tiny, family-run spots where people went out of their way to make me feel at home. In Sri Lanka, a woman brought me tea and sat down to hear all about my tuk-tuk road trip. In Vietnam, I got a free dessert just for being “brave enough” to eat alone.

Still not sure where to go? Try Googling “best places to eat alone in [city]” or check out posts like my hawker center guide for Singapore—these are all places I’ve tried myself and felt totally comfortable in.

3. Choose a Good Seat (Yes, You Can Ask!)

Where you sit can completely change how relaxed you feel when you’re eating in a restaurant alone. And yes—you’re absolutely allowed to ask for a spot that makes you comfortable.

Some of my favorite solo-dining spots:

• A window seat for top-tier people-watching
• A quiet corner if I want to read or just enjoy my own company
• A bar stool if I’m feeling social and might chat with the bartender
• A patio table when the weather’s nice
• Near a plug if I plan to write, work, or catch up on travel planning

And if they try to seat you right next to the kitchen, the bathroom, or a super loud table? Ask to move. Seriously. You’re not being picky—you’re just making sure you enjoy your meal like everyone else.

Feeling a bit anxious? Pick a seat facing the wall or away from the crowd. It helps you relax without feeling like everyone’s watching.

4. Talk to the Staff (If You Want To)

You don’t have to make conversation if you’re not feeling it—but if you’re up for it, a little small talk with the staff can make going to a restaurant alone feel way less… well, alone.

Here are a few easy openers I use all the time:

• “What’s your favorite thing on the menu?”
• “I’ve never tried this—would you recommend it?”
• “I’m in the mood for something comforting. What should I get?”

These quick exchanges often lead to really lovely moments. I’ve had chefs recommend off-menu dishes, servers sit down to chat, and in Sri Lanka, I was once invited to a family wedding just for being friendly. (I didn’t go—but how sweet is that?)

And if you’d rather ease into solo dining in a more social setting, check out Eatwith. It’s such a fun way to share a meal with locals or fellow travelers—so you’re not really dining alone unless you want to be.

5. Bring a Little Distraction

One of the easiest ways to feel more at ease when you’re eating in a restaurant alone? Keep your hands—and your mind—occupied, especially during those first few slightly awkward minutes while you’re waiting for your food.

I always bring a little something to keep me company. Here are a few of my go-tos:

• A Kindle (mine never leaves my day bag)
• A 5-Minute Journal to write down notes or memories from the day
• Crossword puzzles or a fun phone game
• A local magazine or guidebook
• A few postcards to fill out while sipping coffee
• My laptop if I feel like working or watching a downloaded movie

If I’m working remotely while traveling, I always connect through Surfshark VPN—it keeps my data safe when I’m on restaurant or café Wi-Fi. Whether I’m checking my bank app or just catching up on emails, it gives me that extra peace of mind.

6. People-Watch Like a Local

Not sure what to do while eating in a restaurant alone? People-watching is hands-down one of my favorite things to do—especially when I’m in a totally new place.

And no, I don’t mean full-on staring (please don’t do that). Just sit back and quietly take it all in. Notice how the staff move through the space, how locals eat that dish you were too nervous to try, or how families connect over a meal.

It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture—and before you know it, your food’s arrived and you’ve completely forgotten to feel awkward.

7. Your Phone Isn’t the Enemy

Let’s be real—your phone is not the bad guy here. If you’re dining alone as a woman, it’s totally okay to scroll Instagram, reply to messages, or even watch a show while you wait for your food. You’re not being rude—there’s no one across the table!

That said, maybe don’t turn the table into your personal office. Keep the volume low, skip the tangle of cords, and try not to spread out like you’re moving in.

One thing that’s made solo dining so much easier for me? Airalo. I use their eSIMs to stay connected without hunting for Wi-Fi passwords everywhere I go. It’s perfect for streaming a show or Googling menu translations without stress.

8. Make It Feel Like Self-Care

This mindset shift changed everything for me: going to a restaurant alone isn’t something to “get through.” It’s something you get to do.

Slow down. Order whatever makes your eyes light up. Get the dessert just because. Treat the whole experience as a little act of self-care—not a backup plan, and definitely not something to feel weird about.

As someone who’s always on the go while traveling, sitting down for a quiet coffee on my own has become one of my favorite ways to relax. It gives me space to breathe, reflect, and actually process everything I’ve seen or done that day.

9. Dress Like You Mean It

It might sound small, but it really does help. When you’re going to a restaurant alone, what you wear can totally shape how confident you feel walking in.

Wear whatever makes you feel like your best self. That could be a bold lipstick, your breeziest dress, or your comfiest oversized tee. If it helps you walk in with your head high, it’s the right choice.

And if you’re in a more modest destination—like Egypt or Sri Lanka—just adjust your outfit to fit the local vibe. You’ll feel more at ease and blend in better, too.

Need ideas? Here’s what I wore in Sri Lanka that kept me cool, comfy, and confident all day long.

10. Take the Photo

Yes, even if you’re going to a restaurant alone. Actually—especially then.

Want to snap a photo of your meal? Or a cute shot of yourself at the table? Do it. Here’s how I take photos of myself when I travel alone—and honestly, no one cares as much as you think they do.

I’ve asked servers, baristas, and fellow travelers all over Asia to take a quick photo for me. Most people are happy to help, and a few have even gone out of their way to get the perfect angle.

I’ve never once regretted taking the photo. But I have kicked myself for not taking one when I really wanted to.

11. Learn a Few Words in the Local Language

If you’re eating in a restaurant alone while traveling, picking up a few local phrases can make everything feel a little easier—and a lot more fun.

Even just “hello,” “thank you,” or “just one, please” goes a long way. You’ll usually get a smile, and it shows people you care enough to try.

Got dietary restrictions? Use a translation app or have your needs written down in the local language. It makes ordering (and eating!) a lot less stressful.

12. Fake It Until You Make It

This one sounds cheesy, but trust me—it works. Just act like you’ve done this a hundred times, even if it’s your very first solo dinner.

Walk in like you belong there. Smile at the host. Sit tall. You’re not weird for dining alone—you’re confident, capable, and living your best life.

And if you drop your fork or completely butcher a dish name? Who cares. Everyone around you is a stranger. Like Mel Robbins says: let them. You’ll probably never see them again anyway.

13. Don’t Be Afraid to Go Back

Solo travel doesn’t have to mean trying something new every single day. If you find a place you love—go back.

The second visit always feels easier. The staff might recognize you, you already know what you like on the menu, and suddenly you’re not “the girl eating alone”—you’re a familiar face.

That tiny bit of routine? It can feel surprisingly comforting, especially when you’re far from home.

What to Do While Eating Alone in a Restaurant (So You Don’t Feel Awkward)

You’ve placed your order… now what? You’re just sitting there, wondering what to do with your hands and where to look. Completely normal. That quiet moment between ordering and eating can feel a little weird at first—but it really doesn’t have to.

Here’s the truth: going to a restaurant alone isn’t strange. It’s actually kind of freeing. Still, having a few go-to distractions helps ease those early nerves.

Here are a few easy things to do while eating alone in a restaurant:

• Read a book, flip through a local magazine, or open your Kindle
• Scroll through your travel photos from the day
• Journal a few highlights or thoughts
• Catch up on messages or video call a friend
• Watch a show or vlog (with one earbud!)
• Listen to a podcast or audiobook
• Plan your next stop or check opening hours
• People-watch and soak in the vibe
• Chat with the server or bartender—if you feel like it

And honestly? If you just want to sit, sip your drink, and do nothing—that’s more than okay. There’s no rulebook for dining alone as a woman. Do what feels right for you.

Need more solo travel ideas? Check out my summer bucket list for feel-good things to try this season.

Dining Alone as a Woman: Is It Safe?

This is one of the questions I get asked the most—not just about eating in a restaurant alone, but about solo travel in general: “Is it safe?” And honestly? Most of the time, yes. But like anything, it depends—on the place, the time, and how you feel in that moment.

I’ve gone to restaurants alone all over Asia—from cozy ramen bars in Japan to late-night markets in Cairo—and 99% of the time, it was totally uneventful. Most people are too caught up in their own meals to notice what you’re doing.

That said, a few simple safety tips never hurt:

• Trust your gut. If something feels off, just leave. You don’t owe anyone an explanation.
• Stick to well-lit, public places, especially after dark. Ask your guesthouse or hotel for local suggestions.
• Limit alcohol if you’re solo. No need to skip the wine—just know your limits and stay aware.
• Keep your bag close. I usually loop the strap around my leg or chair, especially when sitting outside.
• Use your phone smartly. Apps like inDrive or Uber in Egypt make it easy to get back safely.

The more you do it, the more natural it feels. And truly—most people aren’t paying attention to you. They’re too busy with their own fries.

(Which, as you’ve probably figured out by now, I’m definitely not sharing. Ever.)

FAQs About Going to a Restaurant Alone

Now that we’ve talked all about what it’s really like to go to a restaurant alone, let’s answer a few of the most common questions I get. If you’ve ever felt awkward or unsure—you’re definitely not the only one.

So, Is It Okay to Go to a Restaurant Alone?

Yes. A thousand times yes. Going to a restaurant alone isn’t weird, embarrassing, or sad—it’s completely normal. It’s something people all over the world do every single day—and you absolutely can, too.

Sure, it might feel a little awkward at first (been there), but it gets easier—and way more enjoyable—each time. So book the table, order the wine, take the photo, and own that moment.

Got a favorite solo dining spot? Or need a little pep talk before your first solo meal? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you and cheer you on!

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