While skimming through Google Reader, I came across a wonderful article on the taboo of dining out solo in The Chicagoist. Eating alone at restaurants is something I do on a regular basis and enjoy it. I don’t understand why so many people think it’s weird and why I’m treated different at restaurants. Nothing annoys me more than stepping up to the hostess saying “just one” as she asks how many in my party. Seriously, why give me the stink eye? As a food blogger, I don’t always have the luxury of another person accompanying me on my excursions.

As the author states, “Dining out en solitaire is par for the course in Europe and has been for ages”, so why do American’s find it so taboo? Much like the author explained, I enjoy my quiet time where I can be one with food. I get the enjoyment of partaking in a culinary adventure while enjoying my own solitude. Dining solo means nobody complaining about the food selection, quicker service, easier to get a table, and food hot and ready as it’s made.

Sometimes I like to eat some pretty bizarre foods, and have to worry about looking like a weirdo if dining with someone less adventurous than myself. Other times I just want to get away from people, but want to try someone else’s cooking. Eating out gives the same high as traveling, which is a feeling myself and many other people would like to feel as much as possible. Why depend on other people to join you in feeling better about yourself and life? Don’t look at me funny for sitting at a table alone because I assure you I am having a much more pleasurable time than you because I got to choose the restaurant I wanted to try and enjoyed exploring my own adventurous desires without the stress of catering to someone else.