10 Tips to Master Eating Alone While Traveling

Traveling solo is one of life’s greatest adventures, but one thing that many solo travelers, including myself, sometimes struggle with is eating alone when traveling.

Sitting by yourself at a table in a busy restaurant can feel a little intimidating at first. But trust me—solo dining can be an incredibly rewarding part of your trip, offering time to savor new cuisines, reflect on the day’s adventures, and even meet new people.

Here are 10 tips to make eating alone while traveling not just comfortable but enjoyable:

1. Pick the Right Spot

When I travel solo, I love choosing restaurants that make me feel welcome, and the right ambiance plays a huge part in that. Look for places that have a warm, inviting atmosphere. If sitting at a table by yourself feels too formal, try casual spots like cafés, food halls, or coffee shops.  

Some of my favorite solo dining experiences have been in bustling markets of Bangkok and even McDonald’s in Indonesia where I can blend in with the crowd and focus on the food.

Tip: Counter seating is your best friend! It not only feels less formal but you can usually sit without a reservation.

2. Join a Food Tour or Dinner Cruise

One of the best ways to make solo dining more exciting is by joining a food tour. Not only do you get to try a variety of dishes, but it’s also a great opportunity to learn about the local cuisine and culture.

Food tours are also perfect for solo female travelers because they often attract other tourists, meaning you can meet people and share the experience of discovering new flavors together. Whether you’re on a dinner cruise in Bangkok or indulging in tapas in Spain, the social aspect of a food tour or dinner cruise makes solo dining feel less lonely and more like a shared adventure.

Tip: Many dinner cruises will place you at your own table but in the same area as other solo diners. It’s a great way to meet fellow solo travelers.

3. Use the Time to Unwind

Dining alone is also the perfect chance to relax and recharge, especially after a long day of exploring. I often use this time to slow down and be present. After spending hours sightseeing, there’s something soothing about just sitting down and having a quiet meal with my thoughts.

Bring a book, journal, or even your phone to catch up on travel notes, emails, or photos you’ve taken. One of my favorite things to do is write down my thoughts about the day’s adventures. Not only does this pass the time, but it also lets me reflect and document my experiences.

4. Embrace People-Watching

People-watching is a delightful part of solo dining, and it gives you the freedom to observe all the interesting dynamics around you. One of my guilty pleasures while traveling is spotting couples who clearly aren’t getting along or watching people sitting together but completely absorbed in their phones, not even engaging in conversation. When I see that, I’m actually thankful that I only have myself to deal with!

Eating alone while traveling lets you focus on your surroundings in a different way—taking in the interactions of others while enjoying your meal. It’s a lighthearted reminder of the peace and simplicity that comes with solo travel.

5. Stay Connected, If You Want

When I feel a little lonely, especially in the evening, I sometimes use my solo meal to connect with family or friends back home. This can be as simple as sending a photo of the amazing dish I’m about to dig into or texting about my day. It’s a great way to feel connected while still being present in your travel experience.

And if you’re feeling extra social, dining alone doesn’t always mean you have to eat in silence. If you’re open to it, striking up a conversation with a fellow diner can lead to fascinating stories and even some new friendships.

6. Dine Outdoors

Outdoor dining, especially at casual places, can make solo dining feel more relaxed. Sitting outside with a view of a city square, a beach, or even just the street is an excellent way to enjoy your meal and not feel so isolated. In Yogyakarta, I loved sitting at an outdoor café, surrounded by the sounds of the bustling street, while sipping on a refreshing iced tea.

Tip: If you’re shy about sitting alone inside a restaurant, outdoor dining can offer a more laid-back vibe where you’re less likely to feel self-conscious.

7. Order Takeout or Room Service

If you’re in the mood for a quiet night in or just don’t feel like sitting at a table by yourself, there’s no shame in ordering takeout or room service. Some of my most memorable meals while traveling have been enjoyed from the comfort of my hotel room, especially after a long day of travel. Grab a local dish to-go, find a park bench, or enjoy it back at your hotel while watching a movie or catching up on travel plans for the next day.

8. Bring Something to Leave at the Table

One practical tip for solo female diners is to bring a small item you can leave on the table when you need to get up, like to use the restroom. It could be something like a jacket, book, or even a folded map. This signals to the staff (and other diners) that you’re still using the table and haven’t left for good. Just be mindful not to leave anything valuable behind.

Important: Never leave your drink unattended, even for a short bathroom break. If you’re in a café or restaurant and need to step away, it’s better to finish your drink first. Safety comes first, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when dining alone.

9. Be Mindful of Where You’re Seated

One challenge solo travelers sometimes face is getting seated at less-than-ideal tables in restaurants. Since you’re dining alone, restaurants may want to save the prime spots for larger groups, who are likely to spend more. You might find yourself being led to a table near the restroom, the kitchen, or in a dark corner. It can be frustrating, especially when you’ve chosen a restaurant specifically for its ambiance or view.

Don’t be afraid to speak up if you’re seated somewhere you’re not happy with. Politely ask for a different table if there’s a better option available. In my experience, staff are usually accommodating once you voice your preference.

Remember, as a paying customer, you have just as much right to enjoy your meal in a good spot as a party of four. If they can’t accommodate you or if you feel uncomfortable, it’s okay to leave and find another restaurant. After all, part of the joy of solo travel is knowing that you can pick and choose where you want to spend your time!

10. Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to solo travel or simply not used to dining alone, it’s totally normal to feel a bit awkward at first. Like anything, eating by yourself takes practice. Before your trip, try going out to eat alone in your hometown. Start with casual places like cafés or food trucks, where the atmosphere is more laid-back. Then, work your way up to sit-down restaurants.

The more you do it, the more comfortable it becomes. When I first started traveling solo, I felt self-conscious about eating alone, but over time, I learned to embrace it. Practicing at home helped me build confidence and realize that no one is paying as much attention to you as you think. By the time you’re on the road, eating solo will feel like second nature, and you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the experience.

Tip: Bring a book or listen to a podcast while you practice. It gives you something to focus on until you feel more at ease dining by yourself.

Final Thoughts: Own It!

Eating alone while traveling isn’t something to shy away from—it’s an empowering part of solo travel. Each meal is an opportunity to embrace your independence, try something new, and savor the flavors of the world without distractions. Once you get past the initial discomfort, you’ll find that dining solo is a wonderful way to connect with yourself and the culture around you.

Next time you’re feeling unsure about grabbing a table for one, remember that solo dining is a celebration of your adventure. So pull up a chair, take a deep breath, and enjoy every bite!