Eating alone while traveling solo can feel strange, uncomfortable, and even intimidating at first. I know because I’ve been there. When I first started traveling solo, I found it awkward to go to a restaurant by myself. I used to make an effort to meet people during the day so I wouldn’t have to eat alone in the evening. But as much as I preferred dining with company, I eventually had to accept that it wouldn’t always be possible.
The only way I overcame this discomfort was by just doing it. I went to a restaurant, ordered my meal, and ate alone. At first, it felt weird—especially being surrounded by couples or groups of friends—but the more I did it, the easier it became. Now, I don’t even think twice about eating alone, and I actually enjoy it sometimes.
Changing Your Mindset
One of the biggest challenges wasn’t the actual experience of eating alone—it was what I thought others were thinking about me. I used to worry:
“Do I look weird sitting alone?”
“Are people judging me?”
“Do they think I’m lonely?”
The truth is, people will always have their own thoughts, perceptions, and opinions—and you can’t control that. There are 8 billion people in the world, and each of them sees life differently. If you try to fit into everyone’s expectations, you’ll never truly be free.
What changed for me was realizing that the only opinion that really matters is my own. As long as I’m comfortable, why should I care what someone else might be thinking? Even if someone does wonder why I’m eating alone, so what? Their thoughts don’t affect my happiness.
How to Manage the Fear of Eating Alone
If you’re struggling with this, here are some practical ways to get more comfortable dining solo:
1. Just Do It – Exposure Makes It Easier
The first time feels uncomfortable, but it gets easier every time. Challenge yourself to eat out alone a few times until it becomes natural.
2. Change Your Perspective
Ask yourself: Why does this feel uncomfortable? Is it really because of the situation, or is it your fear of being judged? Once you realize you don’t need anyone’s approval, the discomfort starts to fade.
3. Keep Yourself Occupied
If you feel awkward just sitting there, try:
Bringing a book or Kindle
Journaling about your trip
Watching people and absorbing the atmosphere
Listening to a podcast or music (without shutting yourself off completely)
4. Start Small
If a full restaurant feels too intimidating at first, try:
Cafés or casual dining spots
Outdoor seating where there’s more space
Ordering takeaway and eating in a park to ease into it
5. Focus on the Experience, Not the People Around You
Instead of thinking about what others might be thinking, focus on enjoying your food, the ambiance, and the moment. Treat yourself to a nice meal and appreciate it.
6. Sit at the Bar or Communal Tables
Many restaurants have bar seating where solo diners naturally blend in. Some places also have shared tables where you might end up chatting with fellow travelers.
7. Engage With the Staff or Other Diners (If You Want To)
If you’re feeling social, chatting with a waiter or another solo traveler can help you feel more at ease. But remember, there’s nothing wrong with simply enjoying your own company.
Final Thoughts
Eating alone on holiday doesn’t mean you’re lonely—it means you’re independent. The sooner you embrace it, the more you’ll enjoy the freedom that solo travel brings. Over time, you’ll stop noticing whether people are looking at you, because you’ll be too busy enjoying yourself.
So my biggest advice? Just go for it. The fear fades, and in its place, you’ll find confidence and a sense of self-sufficiency that will carry over into all aspects of your travels.
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Summary of Tips:
Just do it – The more you do it, the easier it gets.
Change your perspective – No one’s opinion really matters except your own.
Bring entertainment – A book, journal, or music can make it feel more natural.
Start small – Try cafés or outdoor seating before diving into fancy restaurants.
Focus on the experience – Enjoy the food and atmosphere instead of worrying.
Choose bar seating or communal tables – It feels more natural for solo diners.
Engage if you want to – Chat with staff or fellow travelers, but only if you feel like it.
