I don’t know why more people don’t do it. There is certainly no shame in occupying a table, filled with a ridiculous number of plates that you’re forced to accommodate your phone on your lap. Eating alone doesn’t have to conjure up horrifying images of polishing pasta over the sink, digging into peanut butter and Nutella curled up on the sofa or consuming dosai straight from the tawa while listening to emo music.
But why is eating by oneself so bad? Why is it associated with being pathetic? A Google search reveals that there are websites that offer tips on how to eat alone, because, let’s face it, eating alone is as difficult as learning how to ski or even attempting to put back extra toothpaste in the tube. The braver ones amongst us, who’ve attempted to eat alone successfully, are aware of the pity looks that people throw us — like throwing biscuits to a stray dog in the rain. Or the visible smirk that we receive when we’re struggling with our food.
Sure, it’s not aspirational, but it does beat having to make awkward conversation with your friend’s friend you’re not fond of, or politely waiting till your companion finishes so that you can get up, or consume a plate of cheesy fries that you were looking forward to wolfing down with a second helping of that chocolate milkshake.
What’s more satisfying than people-watching or reading a book? Or listening to music, all by yourself? When was the last time you concentrated on your food and discovered a whole new flavour profile to your pizza sauce? When was the last time people looked at you like you were a social outcast? The next time you dread eating alone, just remember the bill is a lot lesser. And bonus, you don’t have to pay for dishes you didn’t really order.
