Party of One

Solo Supper
Dining is often enjoyed not only for the food, but for the conversation. You just read that last sentence correctly, ByUrself has offically stated that some activities are done with others BUT ByUrself dining does have a time, place, and certain required finesse. This post will take you through the novice dining solo experience, The Diner.
Diners are a great place to make your entry into solo food consumption without the drone of conversation, spitting, or arguing over who pays (mostly because you are ByUrself so you BuyUrself any food ordered). That off the table - the monetary aspect is really the only draw back, or plus, if you are the one most likely to pick up the tab.
Chose a diner that is welcoming. This is a bit of an oxymoron but err on the side of caution. Are there specials in the windows? Is the parking lot populated? If the air surrounding the diner smells of bacon grease and the diner itself isn't falling apart - venture in.
Your first stop should be at the newspaper stand, or if they have newspapers folded up, grab one. It doesn't matter what time of day it is, it's good to have something to lose your gaze in (preferably not the odd beards or strange dress of a fellow diner.) Make your way to the counter. There's really no bad spot to sit but ByUrself would avoid the seat directly infront of the door. Two reasons, if this is a local spot, everyone that walks in will see the newcomer. Also, the draft and bells on the swinging door can be down right obnoxious.
Don't coward away in the corner but choose your spinning stool wisely.
Next: ordering. Diners are down home, so stick to the basics. Black coffee, OJ, something we've all heard of and no grande, venti, whatever's. You are here to enjoy the simplistities of life; yourself and a decent meal-so leave the confines of coffee house jargon behind. Quickly gaze around you and see what everyone's eating, offering a sure sign of 'what's good here?' while avoiding the ‘outing’ newcomer question. Clearly state your order and start reading the paper or book you've brought with you. It is acceptable to exchange a quick pleasantry with your neighbor, "hey, how's it going?" "How about that game last night?"* ONLY in reference to a TV or newspaper headline, or "good morning"/"have a good one." Don't get overly chatty with your neighbor unless it happens naturally. Ten-to-one, you picked this location for the same reason they did, to get a good meal without the hassle of involving a second or third party. When your food arrives - enjoy it. Savor the tastes and don't rush through the experience. Allow yourself to get lost in the meal and simply enjoy the food. Eating alone allows you to turn your attention from conversation to the sometimes overlooked main course. Don't feel the need to rush out once you're done. Linger around for another coffee, soda, or juice. Feel the isolated suspension of your spinning stool and capture the sensation of your feet dangling.
Dining, solo at a diner is a great way to ease the transition from reservations to none. Sharing a counter with fellow diners reinforces that you aren't truly all alone in your dining experience and creates a commonality without the need for conversation.