Solo Dining in Paris

I have been in Paris (near the Militare Ecole) several times and there are many restaurants there which have no problem with single diners. In fact, there are a few with small tables facing the busy streets where you can sit and have a glass of wine, a bit of food and enjoy the sights of Paris. If you'd rather, just bring an iPad or book with you and read it while you dine. Whatever you do, you will enjoy the experience.

I dined solo in Paris several times and loved the experience-- I loved people watching or just reading a book as I ate. I often asked for a table outside or by the window with no issues, though I did tend to stick to smaller casual places rather than crowded/trendy places where seating was at a premium. Enjoy your trip! :)

I’d say the experience is typically a pleasant one. Since this is France, you’ll be ordering all your courses up front and allowing the server to bring them at a nice pace. Maybe in other countries I would feel an obligation or pressure to move on, but you are clearly under no pressure to do anything but relax and enjoy your meal. Cafe tables are typically small and barely accommodate two people anyway, you’re not taking space from them. The bar area is typically for standing only. It can be easier to get seated in a place, even a very popular/busy one when it’s just you. You might like to bring a book, or use the time to go over your day’s experience, cause the whole thing may take a while. Also, the French, (particularly at a cafe) are some the best people-watching!

I've been solo in Paris a number of times. I don't do higher end dining...just not my thing but have never had any issues at all in being seated and well cared for as a solo. They will seat you so if they seat you at a larger table they don't have a problem with it. You know you will have to ask for your check - whether you are single or in a group?

I generally people-watch but I also have my iPad if I decide I want to read.

I don't know about bar-tops - I wouldn't generally sit there so never notice. In thinking back, most of the restaurants I go to are pretty small and don't have bars. Two do, but I've never sat on that side of the restaurant so don't know how that works.

You'll have a great time on your own. Paris is perfect for solo travel in my opinion!

In France, I say hello, tell them I'd like dinner/lunch (they say "take" dinner or lunch). Often the staff will say to sit anywhere so I'll pick a small table with a view. Other times they'll point me to a table. If you don't like it, tell them what you would prefer.

There is a little Brittany place I go back to, not expensive but nothing fancy either - Breizh Cafe at 109 Rue Vielle du Temple, 75003. I'll generally order either a savory crepe or omelet with a small carafe of cider. There is indoor and some outdoor seating but the indoor has about the same view and I think the price is the same. The wait staff has always been really nice.

Great suggestions, all. Appreciated.
I have bookmarked the restaurants.

Don't worry about taking up a larger table. There are none! ;D

I have seen individuals dining alone at very expensive restaurants when I have eaten there with my spouse or friends. It is not unusual for a Parisian to dine alone and there appeared to be no issues for the restaurant. Tables tend to small anyway.

I think the most important element is for you to be comfortable in the situation. Are you used to dining solo? If this is a new experience for you, I would practice a little bit at home first. The truth is, that most people won't really pay any attention to whether you are eating alone or with someone else.

No problems dining in Paris, be it at a "hole in the wall," a small restaurant, or a place a little fancier. Numerous times I have traveled in France and Paris solo, dined solo too. Experiences have been satisfactory and pleasant. I find the most important part is to read the menu in French and say it in French.

Although this part is not part of your query, I travel almost exclusively solo in Austria and Germany, dine solo ranging from budget places to a few recommended in Frommer's, that rare splurge. Regardless of the restaurant (budget, modest, pricey) in Germany, Austria, or Paris, I sit at a table,.

You'll be fine if you understand that at dinner restaurants have traditional hours - 7:30 PM to about 11 PM.
You'll be fine if you understand that lunch is served at 12 until about 2:30 PM.
You'll be fine if you understand if you reserve a table, things will go much more smoothly.

The terrace is the higher-priced of the two. If you want to sit inside for a meal, where there are no smokers and diesel fumes, you'll be happier.

If you don't understand about table size - and wish to spread out some - the waiter will ask you to "downsize" - and not take over the rest of the tables.

No one will look at you sideways, if you want to people-watch.

All very insightful, thanks so much

I dined alone in London. I found a French restaurant and had a great rime. Just me and my camera.

I’ve eaten alone at cafés in Paris a zillion times and I love it. I don’t eat at fancy restaurants alone though. I disagree with advice to practice at home. I won’t go out by myself at home, I know too many people and would feel self-conscious. In Paris I don’t, it feels very different. I like to sit outside at cafés and people-watch (heaven). You’ll see lots of people eating alone, and as chexbres said, no one will notice or care.

I have dined solo in Paris many times. Many tables are teensy and they are crammed very close together. I have always had my own table but sat very clowe to others. Most times someone seats me except for outdoor tables. At times even the outdoor areas, or parts of them will seat you. I have never had a problem sitting at an outdoor table for 3 solo.

If you are near the Eiffel Tower right by the Ecole Militaire metro, La Terrasse is great. Yes there will be tourists but also locals. Last fall I had a great lunch watching 2 guys who knew the staff have lunch; lots of drinks for them during that meal. It was a show. Other times I have sat next to other tourists.

Enjoy Paris