How to Make Your Restaurant a Solo Dining Destination

We’re seeing more and more of it: people at our restaurants choosing to sit by themselves and have their meal alone. It’s been identified as an emerging dining trend - with a 2020 study by NPD Research Group finding single diners have increased their share of U.S. restaurant visits to a record 35 percent.

This shift in consumer behavior underscores the need for restaurants to cater to this growing customer demographic. Embracing solo diners not only opens doors to a wider customer base but also presents an opportunity for establishments to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. 

At Doherty Enterprises, we’ve watched with interest this growing trend and we’ve taken a number of steps to enhance their dining experience and foster a welcoming atmosphere.

First impressions matter. Creating an inviting ambiance is critical for attracting (and retaining) solo diners. For this, flexible seating arrangements are the key – from cozy booths to communal tables and counter…