According to OpenTable, data shows that more people choose to dine alone at restaurants around the world. In the United States, reservations for single persons have risen by 29% over the last two years.
Solo dining is a growing trend not only in the US, but also in countries such as the United Kingdom and Germany.
The UK has seen a 14% increase in single-person dining this year. Germany has seen a 18% rise.
According to the Hot Pepper Gourmet Eating Out Research Institute, in Japan, 23% of people regularly dine out alone. This is up from 18% just six years ago.
What is behind the solo dining trend?
This trend is attributed to the rise of remote work, as well as an increased emphasis on self care. OpenTable CEO Debby SOO notes that there is a “wider movement of self love and self care,” suggesting people are more likely to enjoy themselves in public settings.
This trend is also influenced by the shift to remote work. Remote work encourages flexibility in schedules and allows for a more personal approach to daily tasks.
Solo dining is becoming more socially acceptable as a result of the change in societal norms.
The covid pandemic is also a factor.
The COVID-19 epidemic has also contributed to the normalisation of solitary behavior, with people becoming accustomed to more alone time.
Anna Mattila is a Penn State University professor who studied solo dining. She says that “the social standards have changed.”
Smartphones and other devices have enabled solo diners who are dining alone to stay connected, reducing any stigma that may be associated with this practice.
These factors are changing the way people view dining alone. Many now see it as normal and even desirable.
What are the restaurants doing to adapt?
Restaurants are adapting to the increasing demand for solo dining by adapting their menus and spaces. Avant Garden is a high-end, vegan restaurant located in New York City’s East Village.
The restaurant offers a table dedicated to solo diners, as well as a four-course special menu for $65 designed for just one person.
Drew Brady, the owner of Overthrow Hospitality which operates Avant Garden in New York City and ten vegan restaurants, sees this adaptation as a way to increase customer loyalty.
Brady believes that catering to solo diners will help build long-term relationships with customers.
There are many reasons to eat alone
Some solo diners find the flexibility and convenience of dining alone appealing, while others view it as a liberating experience.
Jill Weber is the founder of Sojourn Philly. This hospitality group reserves communal tables at events for visitors who are dining alone.
Some people find it rewarding to overcome the initial fear of eating alone, as this adds a sense adventure.
Solo dining can be motivated by a variety of factors, from practical concerns to a desire for personal development.
If you are new to solo dining, it is recommended that you start with a lunchtime meal or an early weekday evening dinner.
Shawn Singh is a frequent single diner who recommends eating out during quieter hours to avoid crowds.
Arriving at restaurants after 5 pm ensures a relaxed experience. “I’ve never been refused at any place” during this time.
Solo dining can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience if you choose the right place and time.
This post Single-person Reservations at Restaurants Up 29%: Table for One may be updated as new information unfolds
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