Redefining mealtime: Solo diners prioritise relaxation and me time

Dining in India has always been synonymous with social interaction. Be it family feasts, community celebrations, or simply a lunch break with colleagues, meals are deeply embedded in a sense of belonging. Traditionally, eating alone has often been associated with loneliness, with society viewing it as something to avoid rather than relish. Yet, in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, solo dining is gaining momentum. More and more people, especially young professionals, are choosing to step out for meals on their own. Whether it’s the fast-paced demands of city life or a personal quest for solitude, solo diners are carving out a space for themselves in India’s food culture. “At our restaurants, we’ve noticed a growing trend of solo diners. To make them feel welcome, we offer several options tailored to their tastes and needs. Our fixed thali provides a wholesome, single-diner-friendly meal, while lighter options like mini meal sets — such as a kulcha and dal — cater to smaller appetites. Customisations like extra rolls and mini sampler platters also allow solo diners to enjoy variety without being overwhelmed by portions,” says chef Ishijyot Surri, who runs multiple fine-dining restaurants.

Single-serving meals for solo diners

The food industry is also evolving in response to the solo dining trend. From customised menus offering smaller portions to restaurants designed for a more intimate, one-person experience, the dining landscape is changing. Food delivery platforms have also tapped into this growing desire for individual meals. Leading food aggregators have introduced “single-serving” meal options, allowing diners to enjoy gourmet food without the pressure to order large quantities. Additionally, some restaurants now offer tasting menus that cater to solo diners who want to experiment with different flavours without the waste that often accompanies a group meal. “Based on our observations, Indian solo diners prefer balanced meals that are convenient and customisable. This is why mini meals and thalis are popular among solo diners at our restaurants,” says chef Ishijyot Surri.

“Don’t be too conscious about sitting alone and try to enjoy your time instead of overthinking it. Bring a book if you need a distraction, or simply savour the food and the ambience. Lastly, don’t be afraid of dining alone; it can be empowering to break free of the need to be constantly surrounded by people,” says Dr Taylor Elizabeth, Emotional Intelligence and Etiquette Coach.

How restaurants are welcoming solo diners

Gaurav Lavania, executive chef at a luxury hotel, says, “We frequently see both walk-in and in-house guests enjoying a solo meal at our signature restaurants. This shift reflects a growing cultural embrace of self-care and independence, where dining alone is viewed as an opportunity for personal relaxation and celebrating ' me time ,' rather than being associated with urban isolation. In response, we have crafted welcoming spaces for solo diners across all our signature restaurants. We also offer customised meals to cater to the diverse palates of our solo guests. With cosy seating, a calming ambience, and a curated menu to suit varying tastes, we ensure that solo diners can savour their moment of solitude in complete comfort.”

“At first, I was hesitant to eat alone at a restaurant. It felt odd. But now, I enjoy it — it’s my time to unwind after work, read a book, and enjoy a quiet meal. It’s become a form of self-care,” says Ananya Mehta, a digital marketing executive.

“I used to think twice before entering a restaurant alone, mostly because I was concerned about safety or judgment. But the world is changing, and so am I. Today, I feel confident walking into a café by myself, even for dinner. Some restaurants make you feel comfortable as a woman dining alone. That shift has been liberating,” shares Nisha Malhotra, a travel blogger.


ETIQUETTE TO FOLLOW WHEN DINING SOLO

• Be cordial to the staff
• Avoid leaving a mess at your table
• Do not make excessive noise
• Keep your space tidy and treat it with respect
• Choose a quiet spot if you wish to maintain privacy. Outdoor cafes can provide a distraction through people-watching
• 
  - Dr Taylor Elizabeth, Emotional Intelligence and Etiquette Coach

Did you know?

Over 20% of Indian diners in metropolitan cities now prefer solo dining, a significant increase from earlier years

- Source: A 2023 report by the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI)

- Inputs by Shruti Paniker