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Alone, Not Lonely: Solo Dining Is Going Mainstream

October 2024

The stigma is over, and dining alone has become more common and socially acceptable. Reservations for solo parties are up 29% over the last two years, with an 8% increase within the past year. The trend presents a significant revenue-driving opportunity for operators since these diners spend 48% more per person than any other group. Find out which consumers are most likely to grab a table for one, and what kind of experiences these individuals look for at sit-down restaurants.

The Who and Why

Solo diners aren’t alone––52% of U.S. consumers plan to visit a restaurant by themselves this year, with younger diners and urban dwellers leading the pack. Most Gen Z and Millennial diners (65% and 63%, respectively) say they plan to dine alone this year. Urban areas are more populated with single-person households, which account for 30% of the American population, and people with busy lifestyles. Others, about 34%, are simply looking to enjoy their own company and get in some “me-time.”

Not all consumers are ready to embrace the trend, however. About half (48%) say that they would feel too lonely eating alone in public. Though solo diners tend to prefer off-peak hours, as many as 27% would invite others like them to their table to eat together.

How to Capitalize on the Trend

Operators can create a more welcoming dining experience for solo parties in three ways:

1. Design flexible seating options. Counter seating or communal tables offer a more comfortable option for solitary diners. Or if rearranging your floorplan isn’t possible, coach staff on removing extra place settings for individuals eating at standard tables.
2. Offer special menus or discounts. Highlight smaller portions and special deals to let solo patrons try a variety of items. Small dishes like Banh Mi Turkey Wraps may appeal to health-conscious diners, Turkey and Swiss Sliders offer a quick bite of indulgence and the Tangy Asian BBQ Wrap is an intriguing combination of flavor profiles.
3. Create opportunities for interaction. Consider an open kitchen design or promoting chef’s specials, as providing an engaging experience for solo diners can increase check sizes.

Catering to individuals eating on their own can help increase business and profits. How will you appeal to this group? Share your thoughts on our Facebook or LinkedIn pages.

Sources:

https://apnews.com/article/restaurants-solo-dining-trend-e1a4d5259007c5831d1ad0a955875a2f?utm_campaign=mb&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_source=morning_brew

https://www.opentable.com/c/solo-dining/

https://www.tablecheck.com/en/blog/solo-dining-hospitality-trend-guide/#:~:text=Boost%20sales%20during%20off%2Dpeak,to%20host%20these%20solo%20diners.

https://restaurant.opentable.com/resources/solo-dining-trends-and-tips/