Dining out in New York City can be an exciting experience, but it rarely includes having to feel awkward about being alone. Whether it’s a business lunch, an impromptu dinner, or a spur-of-the-moment treat, solo dining can be a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s incredible food without having to make awkward small talk with strangers. But if you’re looking for the best restaurants for dining solo in New York City, you’re going to need some help. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top NYC restaurants for dining solo.
Exploring NYC’s Best Solo Dining Options
New York City is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, and now you can indulge in them all without feeling self-conscious. Here are some of our favorite solo dining options in the city.
Alfresco Eatery: Alfresco Eatery is an excellent choice for solo diners looking to enjoy great food in the open air. The restaurant offers simple, delicious food in a casual setting. You’ll find all your favorite sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes, plus several vegetarian and vegan options. Plus, the outdoor garden is the perfect spot for people watching and indulging in a quiet moment to yourself.
The Dutch: The Dutch is a unique Manhattan experience, and it’s particularly great for solo diners looking for a relaxed atmosphere. This chic Chelsea restaurant offers an intimate setting, and the cuisine is a mix of classic American dishes with a fresh, modern edge. Popular dishes include the hanger steak, pancetta Mac and cheese, and burrata pizza.
Bar Tito: Bar Tito is a charming casual spot in the East Village. The atmosphere is laidback and relaxed, perfect for solo diners looking for a place to wind down and savor the night. Bar Tito specializes in tapas-style dishes, so you can enjoy a few small plates without feeling like you’re over-indulging. Take your time, soak up the atmosphere, and savor the deliciousness.
Noho Star: Noho Star offers solo diners a unique chance to enjoy some of the best food in lower Manhattan. The menu offers a wide selection of classic American dishes with a twist. Have a steak for one or share a plate of tacos—the choice is yours. The atmosphere is laidback and relaxed, and the attentive staff is always happy to help with any questions or requests.
Egg Shop: Egg Shop is one of the most popular spots in NYC for breakfast and brunch. The laidback atmosphere makes it the perfect place to grab a bite while catching up on work or reading the morning paper. The menu is centered around egg dishes, but there’s something for everyone. Try the classic breakfast sandwich or a dish of eggs Benedict—it’s all delicious.
El Rincon Del Desayuno Argentino: This Argentinian breakfast spot is the perfect spot for solo diners looking to get an extra-early start. El Rincon Del Desayuno Argentino serves up an array of traditional Argentinian dishes, from chorizos to empanadas to the classic ham and eggs. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the menu is sure to keep you coming back for more.
Agave: Agave is a Tex-Mex eatery in Greenwich Village that’s perfect for solo dining. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to feel comfortable as you indulge in your favorite Tex-Mex favorites. Popular dishes include the camarones al mojo de ajo, the carne asada, and the huevos de Mexico.
Pros & Cons of Solo Dining
There are plenty of reasons to try solo dining, but there are also some potential drawbacks that you should consider before deciding to dine out alone. Here are the pros and cons of solo dining.
Pros:
- You get to choose exactly what you want to eat.
- It can be comforting to have some much-needed time to yourself.
- You don’t have to worry about accommodating others’ tastes.
- You get to scope out your food before committing.
- You can enjoy the restaurant’s atmosphere without interruption.
Cons:
- You may feel lonely or awkward at times.
- You might miss out on sharing dishes with a friend.
- You’ll have to order more food to fill up.
- Your food might get cold before you finish eating.
- You might be more prone to self-consciousness than if you were with friends.
Tips for Dining Solo
If you’re new to solo dining, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dining experiences.
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Choose a restaurant that feels comfortable and inviting. Look for an eatery with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.
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Take advantage of apps. Some truly great restaurants don’t take reservations, but this isn’t a problem with apps like OpenTable, which allow you to book a table or waitlist in advance.
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Bring something to keep you occupied. Don’t underestimate the power of a good book or podcast to help keep your mind off being alone.
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Don’t be embarrassed. Once you get comfortable with being in a restaurant alone, you’ll be more likely to enjoy yourself.
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Ask the staff for suggestions. They can help you pick out something delicious that you’ll enjoy.
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Make conversations without the fear of feeling uncomfortable. If you engage in conversation with other diners, you want to feel safe and confident.
Solo dining can be an intimidating experience, but it can also be an amazing one. The key is to find a restaurant that is comfortable and welcoming. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to catch up on work, a restaurant to indulge in delicious food, or a place to make new friends, New York City has something for everyone. With this list of the best NYC restaurants for dining solo, you’re sure to find the perfect spot.
