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Eating alone in restaurants

35 replies

FormerlySpeckledyHen · 12/04/2025 10:45

Would you, or have you, had lunch alone in a London (1 Michelin star) restaurant?
A seat at the chef’s counter looking into the open kitchen.

Trying to decide whether I am brave enough.

OP posts:
FeelingLessTired · 12/04/2025 12:05

I eat alone very often because DH is not interested in food. I also go to the pub alone often because he does not drink. Plus I used to travel alot for work so have eaten alone all over the world. So it does not phase me at all. DH on the other hand would never eat alone or go to the pub alone.

I would certainly not miss out on a wonderful opportunity because I did not want to do it on my own so definitely go for it!!

Words · 12/04/2025 12:06

Yes I have, many times and would jump at the chance of a one star.

I might feel a bit exposed at the counter as others have commented, but would try to get over myself for the experience!

TheBossOfMe · 12/04/2025 12:31

I do it loads, travel for work a lot so plenty of opportunities to eat at lovely restaurants whilst away. Mix of counter or table depending on what I fancy doing - reading whilst eating or watching the chef.

MrsHamlet · 12/04/2025 12:33

Absolutely I would and have. Go for it!

PishPish · 12/04/2025 12:36

ginasevern · 12/04/2025 11:38

I've eaten in restaurants alone quite often but generally only for a quick'ish lunch when on business or similar rather than a social activity. No, I wouldn't be brave enough to sit alone at the counter. I'd feel too exposed but that's me!

Counter is way less ‘exposed’ than a table, though. You’re sitting in a line of other people, some of whom will also be solo dining, rather than at a table from which someone has had to remove the other place setting/s.

FormerlySpeckledyHen · 12/04/2025 13:30

Thanks everyone for your mainly encouraging replies.

It’s a small restaurant, the counter has 3 seats, and for this introvert who isn’t keen on small talk with strangers, it’s definitely a brave thing to do!
I might not get another chance to go there, so I have booked.

OP posts:
MrsHamlet · 12/04/2025 13:37

Have a fabulous time!

EveryOtherNameTaken · 12/04/2025 14:10

Yes. Just go and enjoy the food and atmosphere. I love seeing what other people choose too and guess what occasions people are there for.

Have a lovely time!

OneDaringSloth · 25/07/2025 13:27

This reply has been deleted

This has been deleted by MNHQ for breaking our Talk Guidelines.

mumandmumber · 25/07/2025 13:29

I love dining alone. Feels like the most indulgent treat. I’d choose that over a spa treatment.

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