Berlin Tops List as Best Destination for Dining Solo
Berlin has been hailed as the ultimate destination for solo dining, with recommendations on where to eat in the German capital. A recent study conducted by Kayak and OpenTable found that solo travel and dining have been on the rise, with many considering it a form of self-care. More and more individuals are opting to dine out alone, with nearly two in five Brits stating they choose solo dining when they need a break from socialising.
Over a quarter of respondents cited ‘me time’ as their primary reason for dining out solo, with around 21 per cent viewing it as part of their regular self-care routine. Berlin emerged as the top spot for solo travellers looking to indulge in dining experiences, offering a perfect blend of solo travel adventures and culinary delights. OpenTable curated a list of top dining spots in Berlin as recommended by solo diners.
Among the standout recommendations is 839, a refined Japanese restaurant in Charlottenburg known for its fusion of Southern American flavours. Ottenthal Restaurant & Weinhandlung, featuring Austrian cuisine, also made the cut for its quality offerings and extensive wine selection. The Michelin-starred Irma la Douce in Tiergarten and Orania Berlin in Kreuzberg were lauded for their exceptional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, making them ideal for solo diners.
Other notable mentions in Berlin include KINK Bar & Restaurant in Prenzlauer Berg, where guests can observe the chefs at work in an open-plan kitchen, and Katerschmaus in Friedrichshain, serving up regional German dishes in a relaxed setting. Besides Berlin, Paris and Dublin were also highlighted as top destinations for solo dining by OpenTable’s solo diners.
Laure Bornet, the VP of international growth at OpenTable, noted that solo dining has become a significant trend in 2024, with solo diners spending 32% more per person compared to the average diner. The study showed a 14% increase year-on-year in the UK for solo dining, with a majority of Brits planning to dine out alone in the coming year. Additionally, the demand for solo travel is on the rise, with more individuals opting to travel alone for a sense of autonomy and accomplishment.
Rachel Mumford, travel expert at KAYAK UK, highlighted the liberating experience of solo travel, emphasising that it doesn’t mean sacrificing socialising, as many solo travellers find it easier to make new connections. As the trend of solo dining and travel continues to gain momentum, Berlin stands out as a must-visit destination for those looking to relish culinary delights in solitude.