Eating alone

I quite enjoy eating alone in cafes and restaurants. Its not that I’m antisocial and don’t want company, just that when the chance arrises to eat on my own I’m happy to do it. My partner has gone off to Cambridge for the day with a friend so it’s been lunch for one.

Eating alone changes so much about the experience. The normal what to eat and what to drink still comes into play but with subtle differences. There’s not going to be any sharing so you can be completely self indulgent. Your not going to be asked to finish someones glass of wine for them. So a lunchtime pint is fine. The menu is all yours.

An important consideration for the lone eater is what to read. Some interesting reading matter is a must. Newspapers or magazine are probably best for this but I wouldn’t rule out a good book. Just bare in mind that there may be a few sticky finger prints on the pages by the end of the meal. If your solo dining experience is going to be in the evening then there is also the concern of making sure that your table has adequate light for reading. I used to travel a lot with work and often ate on my own in the evenings. Some of the quickest meals  I’ve ever eaten were at tables where I didn’t have enough light to be able to read as I ate.

Another thing to think about is where the table is situated. I know that this can come into play when you have company, but alone the requirements are completely different. It’s all about the people watching. Something that might get you told off if you’re with company becomes integral when on your own. If pushed I’ll opt for a window seat so that if the restaurant isn’t interesting I can still watch the world passing by.

Then there is the music. Something that can seem intrusive if you are with someone is going to be something that you actually listen to when solo. Picking a place with a good soundtrack is important.

For me one of the biggest difference comes at the end. I live with someone who doesn’t drink coffee, probably a good thing as I drink enough for two, so rather than the “should we or shouldn’t we” that normally happens I can dive straight in with a “yes” when the waiter asks. This is the time to finish off the article or the chapter that you have been reading.

So if you do see me eating alone you’re welcome to come and join me, but please don’t feel obliged to.

Sautéed wild mushroom & tarragon on sourdough with a poached egg. Franks Bar in Norwich this lunchtime. A great place to eat whether solo or in company.