Although it may sound silly, there is a real satisfaction that comes with walking into a restaurant and asking for one. And it should be fun to enjoy a meal alone, especially if you’re traveling alone or can’t find someone to share with you at the restaurant you wanted. The truth is that most places don’t cater to solo dining, some restaurants don’t even offer reservations for groups of less than two, and some wait staff can be a bit confused when you show up and order a tasting menu for one. Fortunately, London is a city that prioritizes countertop seating, even in some famous restaurants. That means any kind of dinner can feel welcome.
Whether you’re looking for a Michelin-starred fine dining experience or a solo dinner, London has plenty of options that are perfect for going out on your own. Not all restaurants have a seat at the table, the benefit of one meal, but each one offers something special that will help ease any discomfort you may feel eating alone, especially if it’s your first time embarking on a solo dining adventure. It’s usually easier if you bring a book or something to read on your phone, but just sitting with yourself and enjoying a meal while people-watching can be a wonderful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Also, London restaurants like Aulis, Behind and Lilienblum encourage interaction with chefs, so ask them questions instead of scrolling through Instagram. Here, discover the 13 best places to eat alone in London.
