by Erin Berdan

Created on: February 10, 2009   Last Updated: February 11, 2009

I used to hate dining alone in restaurants. In fact, I still do, but I've learned to make the most of it by following a few simple guidelines. Most of this came to me though trial and error while I was working in Ireland a couple years ago. I was away from my fianc for weeks at a time and knew very few people in Ireland. So most nights, I was on my own. Room service was ok once in awhile, but I longed to see and experience more of Dublin, so I mustered up a little courage and went out.

First and foremost, I always went a little earlier than prime dining time. In Dublin that meant about 6:30. The restaurants weren't as crowded so hosts and hostesses were a bit keener to seat a table for one. I also found that a lot of Dublin restaurants had set price menus at that time so I could get an appetizer and entre for one price.

Before venturing out of the hotel, I always had a couple of places in mind, just in case one was full. And I always brought a magazine, usually Gourmet or Bon Apptit perfect for reading during dinner and small enough to stick in my purse.

I found that more often than not I was seated at a small table against a wall. I could peruse the menu and make my selection (always including a glass of wine). Then while I waited for my food, I sipped my wine and read my foodie magazine. The wine helped to set me at ease if all else fails, drink wine!

I learned that certain types of restaurants were more accommodating to a party of one. The higher-end places were usually full or offered a seat at the bar if they had one. I typically went for Indian, Thai or Vietnamese. I found the servers most inviting and they always had room for one more.

On weekends, I'd find a corner in a local cafe or pub. Again, the casual atmosphere seemed a bit more welcoming.

On occasion I'd chat with a bartender or server, but mostly I stuck to myself. When I finished eating, I'd always request the bill for some reason service does seem a bit slower when you're on your own! I didn't linger too long, knowing that the busier time was approaching.

All in all, dining alone wasn't bad and it got easier each time. When it started to bother me, I'd remind myself where I was and then I'd pull on my shoes and head out the door. Believe me, hotels looks the same in all parts of the world, but the dining scene varies from place to place and gives you a view into the culture, so whether you're in Ireland, China or Texas, pull on your shoes and go find a restaurant. You'll be glad you did!

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