Solo dining is gaining momentum in Australia, with more and more people choosing to enjoy meals alone. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of Australians say they’re planning to dine solo this year, according to new research from OpenTable and KAYAK.*
This trend reflects a broader shift in social norms as dining solo becomes more accepted—and even celebrated. In fact, 87% of Australians have already experienced dining out solo.* For restaurants, this trend presents an exciting opportunity to cater to this growing demographic of solo diners.
We’ve rounded up the top solo dining trends to take note of, plus tips for capitalising on the opportunity.
Solo dining is a growing opportunity
The appetite for solo dining is significant, with a 12% increase in solo diners on OpenTable over the past year.** On average, solo diners spend 36% more on their meals compared to group diners, with each meal costing around $94.** Not only are solo diners willing to spend more, but they also prefer to dine out more frequently—approximately 43% of Australians dine out solo at least once a month.* Encourage your staff to engage these diners and not to shy away from upselling a special bottle of wine or offering dessert.
Gen Zs are most likely to dine solo
OpenTable and Kayak research shows that younger generations value dining alone, with Gen Zs being most likely to solo dine. This group is made up of keen solo diners (91%), many of whom are trying new restaurants specifically while traveling.*
To appeal to this group, ensure you communicate authentically and stay true to your restaurant’s unique brand through your marketing efforts. Emphasize solo dining experiences in your messaging and showcase your restaurant as a welcoming destination. When it comes to the channels where you market your restaurant, invest in social media. Gen Z logs more than four hours each day on social media.
Many solo diners are from out of town
Solo dining experiences often occur when people are away from home, with a significant portion of solo diners being from out of town—over 40% of Australians plan to travel alone this year. The top dining aspects that they value while travelling solo include trying new restaurants and dining out (58%), a local dining spot with a welcoming atmosphere (53%), and proximity to their accommodation (46%).*
For restaurants, highlighting the local cuisine and offering unique dishes that give travelers a true taste of the area can be a huge draw. Lean on regional flavours and make sure your marketing highlights them to help attract these out-of-town solo travellers.
Solo dining is an escape for some
The stigma surrounding solo dining is disappearing, with many diners now enjoying the opportunity for personal time and self-reflection. Over 38% of Australians opt for solo dining when they need a break from social interactions. Aussies entertain themselves by scrolling their phone (58%), people watching (50%) or reading (21%).*
Understanding this shift can help restaurants create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to solo diners. Offer seating arrangements that cater to individuals—such as bar seating or booths with kitchen views—to enhance the dining experience for those enjoying their own company.
Lack of inspiration is a hurdle
Despite the growing trend, many solo diners face barriers to dining out, with 48% of Australians stating that a lack of inspiration hinders their decisions.* To tap into this market, highlight signature dishes and offer unique Experiences such as chef’s tasting menus, cooking classes, or themed nights. These opportunities not only make solo dining more appealing but also encourage diners to step out of their comfort zones.
If you’re an OpenTable restaurant, you can easily manage your reputation and showcase the best of your establishment through your restaurant profile. Responding to reviews and polishing your profile can help your restaurant stand out from the crowd and give solo diners the confidence to book.
OpenTable x KAYAK Consumer Research
Methodology
*An online survey was conducted by PureSpectrum among 1000 Australian consumers with an interest in solo travel. Within this sample, major cities have been weighed for direct comparison. The research fieldwork took place between 2-6 August, 2024.
OpenTable data **OpenTable looked at online seated diners for parties of 1 from 1 August, 2023 to 31 July, 2024, and compared it to the corresponding period in 2023. Average spend per guest for parties of one and overall party sizes from 1 August, 2023 to 31 July, 2024 was also analysed.
