Cover Photo: Louis Hansel/Unsplash
Photo: Louis Hansel/Unsplash
1 / 1
At a time when large gatherings should be avoided, we revisit the merits of enjoying a meal in tranquil solitude
For most people, sitting down for a restaurant meal by their lonesome is something they might do on a dare. To them, nothing is more excruciatingly awkward—even embarrassing—than to be caught eating by themselves with nothing but their phone and a glass of wine to keep them occupied. Then again, there are people like myself who look forward to those precious couple of hours of sublime solitude.
I understand that dining alone appeals to a certain kind of person. It is not for everyone—my own husband admits he does not see the appeal. Speaking for myself, I am the type that occasionally needs space. I do feel that, in general, taking some time to reflect and gather one’s thoughts is an activity that all can benefit from. For those who run a household and are responsible for other humans, the constant demand for attention and those sweet little hands grabbing at you from all directions tend to overwhelm. When the job requires constant human contact or sometimes the days seem like they are just repeating themselves, some time away from the daily grind, even for an hour, can be therapeutic.
Above Photo: Pylyp Sukhenko/Unsplash
Photo: Pylyp Sukhenko/Unsplash
1 / 1
If this feels like a hard sell, allow me to argue how it is not. It truly is the easiest thing in the world, from beginning to end. For starters— solo diners are the easiest to sit even in the busiest restaurants. A seat at the bar allows for some pleasantries with the staff if you’re up to it. And if not, that solitary corner that is mostly claustrophobic even for a pair might actually be the perfect table for one.
There is no need for dinner conversation, unless it is an internal dialogue with yourself. No need to dig deep for small talk about the kids or the weather. It's just you and perhaps a book or a precious magazine. For those lulls when you are waiting for your server to take your order or the breaks between courses, one can indulge in activities that would be erstwhile considered rude when with company. Catch up on everyone else’s lives on social media, maybe even slide into a couple of friends’ DMs. Order that new shade of lipstick Zendaya was rocking at her latest premiere. Eavesdropping is a no-no, but really, if they’re talking loud enough for you to hear it from your personal space, then I say it should be considered free entertainment to be enjoyed by all.
See also: Where To Eat Korean Food In Metro Manila
Above Photo: j/Unsplash
Photo: j/Unsplash
1 / 1
When it comes time to eat, dining alone allows for the cheap thrills we take for granted. Living in a household where everyone has their own dietary restrictions, ordering without having to consider what other people want is such a treat. The never-ending discussion that follows the question: “where do you want to eat?” Not applicable. You eat where you want and order what you crave. Also, can I just say: we need more half bottles of wine in this country. It is the perfect size for solo diners to accompany anything from a lunch salad to a three-course meal, and it is always a fresh bottle of wine opened only for you. We need more of this.
No, dining alone should not be a hard sell. It is a quick fix for one that is feeling either extremely saturated or grievously empty, an activity that nourishes you literally and figuratively. Besides, with today’s technology, one is never truly alone anyway. However, that feeling of momentary tranquillity, and the simple pleasure of isolation while at the same time being served. That bowl of pasta swimming in a decadent cream sauce. Yes, those are all yours and yours alone.
NOW READ
12/10's Owners on What it Takes to Create a Sold-Out Pop-Up
Flirty Foodies: Date-Night Recipes to Cook With Your Partner
Jaclyn Clemente Koppe is a food and lifestyle writer, as well as a consultant to some of the country’s beloved food and beverage brands. Her passion for food and drink is only surpassed by her devotion to her family, most especially to her soulmate, Pepa the poodle.
