Originally Posted by
antirealist
Really? From other patrons or staff? Just ignore them. I don't really pay much attention to other diners myself, and the staff ought to be used to solo diners - good restaurants often offer reading material.
I find the idea that there's something odd about reading and dining alone quite strange. It's a pretty common phenomenon in Paris, for example. Why would anyone be offended by it?
I agree whole heartedly based on half a century of (a) substantial business travel alone, and (b) having acquired a bride 46 years ago who believes that breakfast only attracts the Devil's spawn, and that hidden beneath the covers is the way to spend part/all/most of the day before Noon.
Breakfast alone is for newspapers (and breakfast alone is one of life's great mercies). Lunch alone is for travel guides, maps, etc.. Dinner alone in a US city, especially after a day of travel or intense interaction with fellow workers/clients/customers/etc., is surely a moment for a good book. There are a few, old friends, occasional new acquaintances, a client twisting my arm or his/hers being twisted, with whom I really enjoy protracted dinners. I do enjoy dinner on the road with my wife, since we share all courses, doubling the experience and pleasure in really good restyaurants, but who wants to share plates with a stranger (or even a friend)?