Solo dining reservations in Canada grow by 85%: survey

Nov. 13, 2017, Toronto – Reservations for parties of one have grown nationally by 85 per cent since 2015, says an analysis by online restaurant reservations service OpenTable.

The findings suggest the stigma surrounding dining solo may be starting to lift and that consumers are eager to savour special culinary experiences alone, OpenTable said in a news release. According to the survey, most solo dining reservations are booked for dinner (43 per cent) followed by lunch (30 per cent). Canadian solo diners also book most their tables from Monday to Friday, saving the weekends for dining with others.

“This increase in the number of reservations made for one illustrates shifting attitudes in Canadian dining culture,” said Ziv Schierau, head of national accounts for the company. “Instead of opting for takeout or room service, Canadians are embracing solo dining and the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a unique meal at their own pace.”

The service also released the Top 25 Restaurants for Solo Dining in Canada, a list generated based on the restaurants most booked for tables of one and the “overall” star-ratings associated with reviews submitted by verified diners.