Eating Alone

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/general-europe/dining-solo-in-europe

Thankyou! I should have looked!

I doubt anyone will be particularly interested in what happens at another table, regardless of your gender.

Waiters do not rely on tips, so a customer eating alone means less work, not less money.

I am a "mature woman" of a certain age, and I've traveled alone in Italy several times over the past few years, generally for two weeks at a time. I have never felt odd or out of place eating alone. One quick story: while in Lucca for a few days over Christmas in 2016, I ate dinner one evening at a lovely modest restaurant near my hotel. I was greeted warmly and attended to kindly. Two nights later I returned, and was greeted as a friend, with a big grin and a handshake. When I returned yet again, two nights later, I was greeted as family, with an air kiss to both cheeks and complementary limoncello to finish the evening. I've discovered that sometimes traveling alone brings special attention and special kindness, if you are also warm and kind to those greeting and serving you. I also usually bring reading material along, for some respite from just looking out at other people. I also generally make dinner reservations, even if just a few hours ahead of time. That way, my table is assured. Easy to do by calling, or by stopping by the restaurant earlier in the day.

Along with what others have said, if you feel like talking to others while you dine, sit at the bar, if there is one. You can chat with the employees and other diners.

I LOVE eating solo when I solo travel. Especially in Italy! My phone disappears and I listen to the sounds of the city! I love watching..discreetly of course..what is happening around me. I too love to return to a lovely restaurant and find I am welcomed with open arms! And the passagiata solo is a special way to end the evening..with gelato..of course! Choose what you like and enjoy your time!

I am headed to Italy for the umpteenth time, again in September. Alone. Last time, in 2015, I had trouble in a couple of towns in Northern Italy, (Treviso, Vittorio Veneto) just getting in. Places were practically empty and yet they told me everything was booked. It was around 7pm both times. So, I am a little worried that I'll have trouble again, this time, but mostly in the south.
I thought they didn't want to tie up a table for hours. Italians do take their time. I assured them I'd be in and out in 45 minutes; all to no avail. I did this all in Italian, not English.
So, fingers crossed!
I'll deal with the stares of people who must be wondering what's wrong me that I have to eat alone...if I can just get in.

A very good friend in England has traveled solo all over the Europe + other parts of the world for many years now and has had no issue at all eating alone. In fact, she always brings a book as she's a voracious reader who is not much into small talk with strangers. That book helps politely deter well-meaning people sitting nearby from attempting lengthy, uncomfortable (for her) conversations with that "poor woman sitting all by herself". :O)

jGb, a small restaurant my indeed be entirely booked up yet appear empty. Sometimes they have one or two seatings per night and when fully reserved, they're unable to accommodate walk-ins. If concerned about dinner, make advance reservations too?

I am a solo head up, not head down diner i.e. I don't read a book nor do I play with my smartphone - I'm just eating, watching the comings and goings of the restaurant and, most likely signalling for another glass of wine - and no, I'm not doing the Meryl Streep "It's Complicated" whistle.