Eating Alone Becomes A Trend, This Is The Excess And Lacks

JAKARTA - Eating in public in public used to be considered taboo or associated with feelings of loneliness. However, this trend is increasingly popular, especially among the younger generation such as Gen Z and Millennials. According to data from OpenTable, an online restaurant reservation company, 60% of people have eaten alone at restaurants in the last 12 months, and this figure has increased to 68% for the younger generation.

For restaurants, solo customers are also profitable. In the press release of OpenTable 2024, Robinung, senior vice president of OpenTable growth, gave a statement.

"Solo subscriptions tend to spend more money, spending 48% more per person than average customers," Robin said, quoted from the Huffpost page on Thursday, February 20.

In the past, eating alone was considered a sign of loneliness or lack of social relations. Dr. Supatra Tovar, a clinical psychologist and nutritionist, said that this stigma began to change along with the increasing awareness of the importance of self-care and mental health.

The Covid-19 pandemic has also forced many people to eat on their own, which has changed social dynamics regarding this habit. Now, eating alone in a restaurant is not only more accepted, but also has various benefits. Here are 3 benefits of eating alone:

1. Encouraging Eating With Full Awareness

One of the greatest benefits of eating alone is allowing one to focus more on food.

"When we eat alone, we can be more aware of our taste, texture, and experience of eating without external disorders," said Dr. Tovar.

Eating alone also helps a person better understand relationships with the body, recognize hunger and fullness, and create healthier relationships with food. In addition, this is an opportunity to enjoy time alone, think, and reflect.

Some types of food, such asfoy, are perfect for enjoying themselves. Chef Shingo Akikuni explained that intermagnation creates an interactive experience that allows customers to ask the chef directly and enjoy more in-depth food.

2. Improve Independence

Eating yourself means you just need to adjust your personal taste and preferences. Dr. Tovar notes that solo customers can choose a place and food without considering other people's tastes. This is very beneficial for those who have special diet needs, such as vegetarians, vegans, or those who have gluten allergies.

In addition, eating in groups can affect a person's food choice. In many cases, people feel the need to follow other people's choices or avoid certain foods for fear of being judged.

Dr. Charles Spence from the University of Oxford added that in groups, people who order first tend to influence other people's food choices. By eating alone, a person can choose food without being influenced by external factors.

3. Increase Self-confidence

Eating alone can also increase self-confidence. Dr. Cortney Warren explains that people who dare to eat themselves have the confidence to deal with social situations without being influenced by other people's opinions. This can be a very empowering experience.

Research in 2021 on South Korean students who eat alone shows that those who choose to eat alone consciously benefit cognitive and emotional benefits. They enjoy the experience more and don't feel lonely or bored.

Even for those who initially felt awkward, eating alone could be an experience that strengthens self-confidence.

"When we challenge ourselves to do something uncomfortable and succeed in doing it, it increases our self-esteem," said Dr. Warren.

Lack of self-feeding

Several studies show that eating alone can be associated with obesity and depression. However, the context is very influential.

Dr. Warren notes that many people have difficulty with food, both in solo and social settings. These challenges can be in the form of overeating, eating less, or feeling anxious about food choices. It is important to distinguish between choosing to eat yourself as a form of self-care by eating yourself because you feel isolated.

Tips For Eating Alone Fun

For those who are not used to it, Dr. Warren suggested that this experience be made as special as possible. Choose a restaurant that is attractive or food you really want to try. If you feel awkward, mindset training by remembering that other people's opinions are not very important.

Some may want to bring books or cell phones to reduce anxiety. However, Dr. Tovar warns that too focused on mobile phones can distract from food and cause unconscious eating. A better choice is reading books, writing journals, or just enjoying the atmosphere.

"Remember that food is not just fuel, it is an experience, and eating alone can be a strong way to value that experience in your own way." said Dr. Tovar.