Go Eat By Yourself
Eating alone in New York should not require bravery. You are not climbing Everest. You are ordering pasta without a witness. And once you realize that, an entire city of bar seats, impossible reservations, and dinners where nobody asks to try your food opens up to you.
I eat out a lot in New York City. That spans a lot of things—scoring hard-to-snag reservations, cruising by food trucks, walking into neighborhood holes in the wall. I eat every type of cuisine I can, and I love draining my wallet. And yes: I dabble in solo dining.
Sometimes, when I tell people I occasionally dine solo, you’d think I told them I free solo cliffs in blizzards. “I could never!” they insist. Well, I can! Solo dining can be a beautiful thing if done right. Bring a book, a Sudoku puzzle, your mind. Take a deep breath. Relax. Enjoy the food.
Here are some spots to do so.
THE FOUR HORSEMEN: Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Your friends have been trying, unsuccessfully, to get into this Michelin-starred restaurant for ages. Not you—you’re solo dining, so you can walk in and get a seat at the bar. (At least, it worked for me!) Exquisite small plates are worth the price and the hype tax. The small plates are also small enough to try a few, so you won’t miss out alone. The menu changes weekly, so roll the dice and see what you get. If the tender veal sweetbread skewers are on the menu, order them immediately.
Courtesy: The Four Horseman
SUSHI W: UES, East Village
These days, you can throw a rock and hit an omakase spot in NYC. If you’re a sushi addict like me, this is a wonderful problem to have. When you’re feeling overwhelmed by choice, try Sushi W. Simple, savory, delicious—at reasonable prices. It’s $53 for basic omakase and $68 for premium, with a $38 lunch special to boot. Enjoy melt-in-your-mouth bluefin tuna and lip-puckering hotate. It’s definitely express dining, with one-hour seat times—but when you’re solo dining, that gives you more time for your post-dinner walk.
Courtesy: Sushi W
CI SIAMO: Hudson Yards
Picture this: You have had a horrific day in the office. You’re craving carbohydrates, a glass of white wine, and pure, unadulterated silence. Ci Siamo, stationed in Hudson Yards, calls and beckons to you, at least if your office is within reach of the 7 or the E train. (It probably is.) Expansive, glittering interiors make it feel like a treat-yourself occasion, and it’s easy to grab a seat for one here and still feel like royalty. Pastas are oily, slick, and delicious. Don’t miss the brothy rabbit stracci.
Courtesy: Ci Siamo
MARISCOS EL SUBMARINO: Jackson Heights, Greenpoint, Park Slope, Clinton Hill
In a city where the Mexican scene is constantly getting (unrightfully) questioned, Mariscos El Submarino is an answered prayer. It’s the opposite of Ci Siamo: décor is minimal and simple, and the vibes are casual. That makes it easy to settle in for delicious food at affordable prices. Some locations may have lines, so time accordingly (and enjoy the perks of being solo). Indulge in decadent tacos, especially the salty, cheese-filled ones: costa if you want beef, el gobernadora for shrimp. But whatever you do, don’t miss the tart, perfectly spiced aguachile. If you’re hungry, get a big portion in a molcajete. If you can’t handle it solo, grab it on a tostada.
Courtesy: Mariscos El Submarino
RESIDENCE OF MR. MOTO: Williamsburg
You’re not in the mood for omakase, but Japanese food in a cool location is still on the menu. Enter Residence of Mr. Moto, the cozy sister of the Office of Mr. Moto, and one where you don’t need to spend $200 on your meal. You’ll be squinting through dim lighting, but enjoy themed, cutesy decorations designed to look like a real home. Small bites abound: hearty chawanmushi, rich and slightly sweet soy butter scallops, silky sushi sets. But you should be here for the kaisen-don, piled high with delicious, fresh toppings. When you have about a quarter left, ring the bell next to your seat so the staff can fill your bowl with rich broth that heats your insides. Charming, and fit for one.
Courtesy: Residence of Mr Moto