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Ask Chef Walter: Embracing the solo diner – Walter Potenza
by Chef Walter Potenza, contributing writer
How restaurants are adapting to the growing trend of guests dining alone.
Friends:
Solo dining has become a popular trend lately, showing how society is changing. What used to feel strange or uncomfortable is now normal and encouraged everywhere. This shift didn’t happen overnight; it’s been influenced by various societal changes, the lasting effects of the pandemic, and the rise of remote work. In the U.S., solo dining reservations have jumped 29% in the last few years. Germany and the U.K. also see an increase of 18% and 14% respectively. Even in Japan, where solo dining (or “ohitorisama”) is popular, a healthy 23% rise has recently occurred.
The move towards individualism and independence is a big reason for this phenomenon’s popularity. People are more focused on their preferences, allowing them to enjoy a meal without compromising. Plus, with remote work mixing personal and professional time, many are looking for quiet moments to unwind, and solo meals fit that bill perfectly. Restaurants have responded positively, with some even offering seating designed explicitly for solo diners, such as counter seating or small tables, providing privacy and a more comfortable experience.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, as many people became accustomed to spending time alone and sought socially distanced activities once restaurants reopened. Dining alone controls one’s environment, making it an appealing option for those still cautious about health risks.
Solo dining has become more common, raising some interesting questions about what that means for our social lives. Is it a sign that we’re becoming more isolated, or is it how people choose to eat these days? It feels like our phones are distracting us from connecting with others—have you noticed that?
For some, eating alone is about freedom and doing their own thing. However, it might highlight loneliness or a lack of community for others. Whether this trend is more about society or personal preferences is still debatable, and the truth might be a mix of both.
There are perks to dining solo, though. It lets people focus on their food, enjoy quiet time, and reflect. Sometimes, taking a break from the usual social scene is lovely. Plus, solo diners can help restaurants tap into a different crowd and get creative with their menus, often bringing in high-quality food since many are pretty savvy regarding health and wellness trends.
Conversely, eating alone can feel lonely, especially since meals are usually seen as social events. And sure, it can be awkward to dine solo in places designed for communal dining, but that concern often doesn’t matter much in the grand scheme.
Most restaurants are on board with the trend, but their reactions can differ depending on the type of place and its location. Many see it as a chance to attract new customers. Some even see those diners as a new opportunity, especially during slower hours when they might need help to fill tables. That said, upscale restaurants worry about losing revenue because of these changes since most establishments are walking away from superb hospitality instead of the bottom line.
A solo diner usually takes up the same table as a group of two or more, but they don’t bring in as much money. Because of this, some restaurants tend to favor larger groups or couples, which can make solo diners feel a bit unwelcome. On the flip side, many places have embraced solo diners by creating more flexible spaces.
They might set up communal tables where solo guests can vibe with others, making them feel part of a more extensive dining experience while still maximizing the space. In the long run, restaurants welcoming these new diners will likely do better. By making their spaces inviting for everyone, including those dining alone, they can build loyalty and attract a broader range of customers. This new adaptability can undoubtedly be a critical factor in their long-term success.
Dining alone reflects some significant changes in society. Some of these changes are due to the pandemic, while others come from people wanting different experiences. It’s hard to say if this trend will keep growing or if folks will start dining together again.
For now, eating solo is here to stay, bringing ups and downs for diners and restaurants. There’s great potential for growth and new ideas in the restaurant world.
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Meet Chef Walter!
There is a constant, recognizable thread in the career of Walter Potenza to elevate the level of Italian culinary culture in the United States. Besides his unquestionable culinary talent and winning business perspective, Chef Walter has been a relentless educator with passion and knowledge who defeats stereotypes. His life, career, and values are a model, an example to follow by any chef of Italian gastronomy working outside Italy.
Chef Walter appears regularly on National and International Networks such as Food Network, ABC, CBS, NBC, RAI, FOX, and Publications such as NY. Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Food & Wine, Saveur, Gourmet, and several Italian media outlets. And now – RINewsToday!