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On Your Own … Make Solo Dining Anything Less than LonelyBy Karen FawcettAs president of Bonjour Paris I field a lot of questions. The majority are France-related but are applicable no matter where you are traveling. This is especially true when it comes to meals. Even people on a diet must eat! I've listed some favorites in Paris but the same types of restaurants exist everywhere. There are two types of single travelers. Some are delighted to call it a day, whether it’s business or pleasure travel, and seek solace and sustenance by calling room service and vegging out. They may have done too much shopping and/or sightseeing or had too many meetings and are peopled out. Their rooms are havens and their destinations of choice. They want to be ready for what the next day brings. They’re delighted to have the opportunity to read, watch television and/or prepare for the following day’s meetings. Some people have eaten large lunches and prefer a light snack (or nothing) before they hit the sack. There’s the second type of person traveling alone who isn’t the solitary type and wants to eat out. Their idea of eating is not McDonalds. In Paris, as is the case in most cities in the U.S. and the EU, there are places where you can go and have wonderful meals and not feel alone. Some single women travelers are more restaurant-challenged, not wanting to appear on the prowl. The reality in Paris is that unless a woman is on the hunt, she’ll rarely, if ever, be bothered… unless she’s wearing come hither clothes. There’s a recent trend and it’s becoming global. Bars in some chic Paris restaurants have place settings during meal times. Why not squeeze in a few extra covers? It’s essential you reserve at some; however, it’s more than likely the restaurant manager will be able to squeeze in a solo as contrasted with a couple. Wine Bars: Juvenile’s Jacques Melac
Oeniphiles hang here to sample good to great wines. British owner Mark Williamson servers up more than presentable bistro fare. Another favorite among the Anglophone group: Cuban-American Juan Sanchez opened a wine store and soon after, followed with a restaurant called Fish. Don’t get the wrong idea that only fish is served – rather, its connotation is “drink like a fish.” The wine selection is extensive and the food is actually good. Regulars from the neighborhood stop by for a glass of wine and/or something to eat. The bar scene attracts all ages and it’s hard not to end up speaking with a neighbor. Fish Sushi – Sushi! And more Oriental Abuzu Japotori Noodle Shops French Diner with a Flair! Haute Cuisine Spoon
Chiberta There are so many “single friendly” places in Paris that I wouldn’t hesitate to set out on my own and frequently do. Even starred restaurants don’t mind when a person is sitting alone. If you’re a woman, so much the better; most waiters show a bit more interest and are often likely to bring you a kir and make sure you’re comfortable. It’s advisable that you leave a supplementary tip because normally the waiter would have been serving two people. There are plenty of Irish bars in Paris when you can grab a beer and a burger. Or, you can sit in a “palace” hotel bar or lounge and enjoy dinner alone. Most Europeans don’t think it’s bizarre if you’re traveling alone and not staying in a super business-style hotel. Take a book or a magazine as your companion. I can’t count the number of times I’ve ended up in pleasant conversation with people from around the world. If you’re in the mood to talk, more than likely, your eating “companions” will be as well. If the truth be known, there are times when it’s a pleasure to eat “alone.” Most especially, if you’re curious by nature and like to know what other people are thinking!
Karen@BonjourParis.com |
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Wine bars generally serve food at the bar. Sometimes the food isn’t a five
course dinner but often it is. People should always take something to read. But
wine lovers share an affinity and frequently end up discussing the merits of
different appellations. Some wine bars that score high on the lists: 
Willie’s Wine Bar
L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon