Solo Dining Trends in the US: What’s Changing in 2025?

Solo dining is not a new phenomenon, but its growth in the US has seen a significant uptick in recent years. With increasing numbers of people living alone and a shift toward individual dining preferences, more consumers are choosing to dine solo, both in casual and fine-dining restaurants. According to a report by National Restaurant Association, solo dining accounted for 18% of all restaurant visits in 2023, and this figure is projected to rise as more consumers opt for dining experiences that cater specifically to them.

Quick Answer
In 2025, solo dining continues to grow in popularity across the US, driven by increasing social acceptance and the rise of digital tools like food delivery apps and reservation systems. Solo diners now have more choices than ever, from customized menus to single-seat dining experiences.

The evolution of solo dining trends is pushing restaurants to rethink their dining spaces, service models, and menu offerings. What are the new trends that will define solo dining in the US over the next few years? How are restaurants adapting to meet the needs of this growing demographic? Let’s explore these changes and what they mean for the future of dining alone in 2025.

Solo dining is increasingly being recognized as a mainstream experience rather than an isolated event. The reasons for this shift are multifaceted, with both social and technological factors contributing to the change.

Changing Social Norms

In the past, dining alone was often perceived negatively, linked to loneliness or isolation. However, as social norms have evolved, more individuals are embracing the opportunity to enjoy meals on their own. Solo dining is no longer seen as unusual or stigmatizing but as a way for individuals to prioritize personal time, unwind, and enjoy the experience of eating without distractions.

The Impact of Technology

The growth of digital platforms has greatly contributed to the popularity of solo dining. Food delivery services, restaurant reservation apps, and online ordering systems have made it easier than ever for individuals to enjoy restaurant-quality meals on their own terms. This ease of access has helped redefine what solo dining looks like, providing greater flexibility and convenience for those dining alone.

Market Demand

The demand for solo dining is driven by several demographic groups, including young professionals, older individuals, and students. The rise in the number of single-person households in the US has also played a role. As of 2023, there are more than 35 million single-person households in the US, and this number continues to rise. This demographic is not only seeking dining experiences that cater to their lifestyle but also expects restaurants to provide spaces that accommodate their needs.

In 2025, restaurants are increasingly recognizing the need to create environments that are solo diner-friendly. The traditional dining room setup, designed primarily for larger groups, is being adjusted to provide more intimate seating arrangements for those eating alone.

Solo-Friendly Seating Options

Gone are the days when solo diners were relegated to sitting at a bar or in a corner booth. More restaurants are offering single-seat tables that cater specifically to solo diners. These tables are often designed for comfort and efficiency, allowing individuals to enjoy their meals without feeling rushed or out of place.

In addition, private booths or communal dining counters are becoming more common in restaurants. These setups create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for solo diners while still promoting a sense of social connection. The idea is to create an experience that feels personalized and inclusive while still providing the space and privacy that solo diners seek.

Bar Dining Evolves

While bar dining has always been a go-to for solo diners, many restaurants are transforming their bars into social spaces for individuals, offering a more upscale and comfortable environment. With the rise of craft cocktails, small plates, and wine bars, the dining experience at bars is becoming much more refined, appealing to those dining alone who still want a sophisticated experience.

Health-conscious dining trends are also influencing the solo dining experience. As people become more particular about their diets and nutrition, there’s a growing demand for restaurants to provide customizable meal options that cater to individual needs. In 2025, many restaurants are embracing the idea of giving diners control over what goes into their meals.

Customizing Meals for Solo Diners

Restaurants are beginning to offer build-your-own or customizable menu options that allow solo diners to create meals that suit their preferences. Whether it’s choosing low-carb ingredients, gluten-free options, or protein alternatives, diners can now craft meals that align with their dietary restrictions or goals.

Additionally, restaurants are introducing smaller portion sizes for individual diners, offering the flexibility to reduce waste and cater to those who prefer a lighter meal. This can be especially appealing to health-conscious individuals who want to enjoy a well-balanced meal without overeating.

Health-Focused Choices

The demand for nutritious meals is growing as more consumers opt for low-calorie, low-sugar, or plant-based dishes. Solo diners are often more mindful of their nutritional intake and want the option to make healthier choices. In response, many restaurants are integrating nutrition-conscious items into their menus, such as grain bowls, smoothie bowls, and vegan burgers.

In 2025, technology continues to revolutionize the dining experience, particularly for solo diners. Restaurant reservation apps, digital menus, and self-ordering kiosks are making dining alone easier and more enjoyable.

Mobile Ordering and Delivery

Mobile apps like UberEats, Grubhub, and DoorDash have made it simpler for solo diners to enjoy restaurant meals from the comfort of their homes. These platforms offer a wide range of meal options from various restaurants, allowing customers to explore new dining experiences without leaving their homes.

For in-person dining, digital ordering systems streamline the process for solo diners, enabling them to place their orders quickly without feeling rushed or awkward. These systems often include options for customizing meals, selecting meal sizes, and even paying through the app, making the entire dining experience more efficient and personalized.

Restaurant Reservation Platforms

Solo diners are increasingly using reservation apps like OpenTable or Resy to book tables at restaurants. These platforms allow customers to secure a seat in advance, eliminating the uncertainty and wait times that often come with dining alone. The convenience of reservations also enables solo diners to choose the best times to eat, whether it’s during off-peak hours or at their preferred table.

The rise in solo dining can have a positive impact on a restaurant’s bottom line. As more individuals opt to dine alone, restaurants are recognizing the potential for increased sales per head and a more efficient use of space.

Increased Sales Per Head

Solo diners tend to spend more per visit compared to groups. Many solo diners opt for premium drinks, add-ons, or desserts that they might not purchase when dining with others. With fewer people to share the bill, solo diners are more likely to indulge in these extra items.

Optimized Seating and Space Management

By offering solo-friendly seating, restaurants can maximize their space and serve more customers throughout the day. This is particularly useful during off-peak hours when a single diner may occupy a table that would otherwise remain empty. This can lead to higher seat turnover and ultimately, increased revenue.

By embracing these trends and understanding the evolving landscape of solo dining, restaurant owners can position themselves to capitalize on this growing market and ensure long-term success in 2025 and beyond.