Who says you need a buddy to visit your favorite restaurants? Or that you need a coffee shop to get work done (not that we’re opposed).

Today we’re talking about the magic of dining alone, and the best spots in KC to work, mingle, grab a quick bite, or take yourself out on a date. Trust us: once you’ve started, there’s no going back.

Dinner with a view

When you don’t have conversation to keep your attention, you’ll want a restaurant that provides the entertainment for you.

Pirate's Bone Burgers | Old school diner-counter seating gives you a view of the action in the kitchen (plus, its 100% plant-based menu isn’t shabby either).
Novel | With a 50-ft tile mosaic, open kitchen + patio planted with native trees + grass, there’s always something gorgeous at.
Harvey’s at Union Station | A perch over Union Station is perfect for some people watching.
The Phoenix, The Ship + Jonnie’s Jazz Bar & Grill | Settle in and enjoy the bar + some live music without distraction.

Pro tip: food courts like City Market, Parlor, and Lenexa Public Market are also primo people watching territory.

Do not disturb

Sometimes you just want some you time.

Ça Va | Low light + fine wine, with helpful staff who will shut down any unwanted attention.
The Antler Room | An intimate small plate atmosphere, plus you can make a reservation specifically for the bar. No taking up two-tops on a busy night.
Brew Lab | The long bar + extensive food and beer menu mean you can stay for the long haul, great for a long work session.

Pro tip: Afterword Tavern & Shelves doesn’t currently offer food, but we’d be remiss not to mention its collection of books to pair with your cocktail.

Please disturb

One of the best parts of dining alone is being free to meet new people.

KC Bier Co. | Biergartens are built for conversation around a flight of local beer.
Thelma’s Kitchen | The donate-what-you-can concept built around community + service.
Queens Sweets and Bakery | Family-owned, it’s “like eating in your friend’s living room,” according to The Pitch’s Liz Cook.

That’s what we’ve got, but don’t leave us hanging. Let us know your best solo dining spots, and you may just see it in the newsletter.