To go for lunch alone?

[Napqueen1234]

I was chatting to a friend and mentioned I like to go for lunch alone as a ‘treat’ I suppose (as in once every 2-3 months) ie if I finish work early or take half a day for an appointment after that. Usually somewhere cheap and cheerful- local cafe or Nando’s. she looked at me as if I was insane to eat a meal out alone and insinuated people would think I was really weird. What do you think? Would you do it?

Yanbu I’m planning a n doing this tomorrow in fact

It's a lovely thing to do.

@MrsSarahSiddons no middle child so maybe it’s the peace I like 😀 thanks for all your responses glad to know I’m not a weird hermit! I will continue my peaceful lunch treats knowing I am in good company!

Especially if you can get a table near the window and can alternate between reading your Kindle and watching the world go by outside.

I don't, but only because I'm fat and I worry people will think I'm a super greedy bastard if I'm alone

I go and have a carvery on my own, breakfast on my own, I shop alone and do country walks alone. I went abroad by myself last year and it was better than when I went with friends the year before.

People who can't do anything by themselves are pathetic x

I do most things alone. Everyone thinks I'm crazy and I do feel on display half the time but I either can't deal with people or nobody wants to go...

Like I wanted a carvery today but wouldn't feel comfortable there alone. But I'd be 'fine' in McDonald's... Don't know why.

I travel frequently for work and love nothing more than people watching over lunch in a new city or country. The first time I took myself for dinner alone I remember being mortified and kept my head down focusing on my phone but think nothing of it now. It feels so indulgent not worrying about anyone else, no children to appease or small talk to make. I say embrace it

I'm so envious child free dinning. Sad people can't enjoy their own company. I adore skiving off gym in the mornings and sitting in a cafe completely alone, just me and a book before work.

I like it but I also feel self conscious that that people think I have no friends so I usually take a magazine or book and by the 3rd glass I seem to stop worrying about what other people think

It's lovely having lunch or a drink alone.

Life's too short to not eat nice food. Go for lunch!

What always seemed strange to me is people who get freaked out by eating alone. I can understand it if, as written above, it is a self-esteem issue (I have plenty, not judging) - but they do recognise it as an issue.

It's your friend who's weird. Is she one of those people who can't cope with just their own company?

Yanbu.

Of course you weren't being weird. Your friend probably just lacks confidence.

Yes, perfectly reasonable.