Dining out alone doesn’t have to mean grabbing a quick takeaway or scrolling through your phone between bites. In fact, it can be a great way to enjoy a quality meal – on your own time, at your own pace, and without sharing a single bite. Whether you’re travelling solo, taking yourself on a well-deserved me-date, or simply craving a quiet moment, South Africa offers plenty of welcoming, solo-friendly restaurants.
We took a look at Dineplan reservation data from the past year and rounded up places in Cape Town and Johannesburg popular with solo diners. From bustling eateries with counter seating to communal tables and intimate bistros where you’re treated like family, these are the restaurants that get the most one-seater bookings.
Cape Town
Bouchon Bistro 
(Hout Street, Cape Town)
Set in Cape Town’s CBD, means that Bouchon Bistro is the perfect place for a solo meal during lunch or after work. The menu of tapas – with a three-for-R305 special – means you can try a bunch of dishes without needing a group. Grab a seat at the bar counter overlooking the open kitchen and watch the chefs in action, or settle at a table if you’re planning to go all in. The cosy buzz, clinking glasses and lively kitchen make it easy to feel part of the crowd – even when dining alone.
Truly a must for any small plate enthusiast. Loved it!
Burger and Lobster
(Hout Street, Cape Town)
Whether you’re popping in after work for a quick bite, stopping by during a solo sightseeing mission in the CBD, or just craving something delicious without the need to share – Burger & Lobster is a solid solo dining stop with over 1,873 one-seater reservations! Grab a high chair outside and watch the busy Bree Street, or head inside and settle in at the moody bar with a cocktail in hand. Appetite depending, you can keep it light with a few small plates (the fried chicken lollipop and roast garlic mac and cheese are winners) or go big with their signature B&L burger or buttery lobster roll.
Club Kloof
(Kloof Street, Cape Town)
This stylish Italian-ish eatery on Kloof is perfect for a solo date. The menu, packed with pizzette, arancini, and bite-sized plates, is perfect for one – no sharing required. Whether you’re there for a cheeky lunch, aperitivo hour or a quick dinner, the space is always alive with chatter – so sip a martini, soak up the atmosphere, people-watch and enjoy a moment of solo indulgence.
The Pizzettes, the cocktail, the grilled zucchini (oh my worrrrd) and the absolute BEST vibes. I had such a good time. Thank you Club Kloof! You are the coolest. Also shout-out to Ali and the rest of the waitering staff. You guys are so professional, friendly and wonderful.
GOLD Restaurant
(Green Point, Cape Town)
With African-inspired dishes, drumming, dancing and live entertainment, GOLD Restaurant in Cape Town is a feast for all the senses and is a must for your solo night out. It may be a table for one, but it never feels that way – the interactive experience, paired with a set-menu that is served by friendly staff make it easy to join in and connect. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, GOLD is all about what food is meant for: bringing people together.
FYN Restaurant
(Parliament Street, Cape Town)
If there’s ever a time to spoil yourself, solo dining at the award-winning restaurant, FYN is it. Take a seat at the sleek counter for a front-row view of the chefs in action – intricately and calmly plating each course and placing it before you. From the glassware to the light fittings, every detail is considered, paired with flawless service and a standout menu, FYN offers a truly special experience that feels even more personal when it’s just for one.
Flawless yet relaxed. One of those great meals I will remember for years to come. A benchmark.
Ramenhead
(Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town)
If you’re serious about ramen and find yourself in Cape Town’s CBD, Ramenhead is a must for your solo dining adventure. Grab a seat at the bar counter and watch as bowl after bowl of steaming hot ramen is assembled, plated and sent to the pass, while you slurp up silky noodles, made fresh-in-house. The space is small so tables turn quickly, making it ideal for a quick pick-me-up, casual people-watching, or a satisfying meal on your own. And let’s be honest – a table for one means no judgement for extra loud slurps.
Besides the fact that the food will blow your mind, the service just adds that cherry on top of it all! Excellent experience. Can’t wait to try all 5 bowls.
Reverie Social Table
(Observatory, Cape Town)
Offering a unique social dining experience that is built on connecting over good food, wine and company Reverie Social Table is the perfect for a solo excursion. Found in the heart of Obs, and recipient of a top 20 place in the Dineplan Reviewers’ Choice Awards two years in a row – guests are seated at an 18-seater table to enjoy a seasonal 5-course meal paired with curated wines. Throughout the evening Chef Julia Hattingh encourages diners to get up and switch seats, turning strangers into friends. It’s the kind of place where solo diners are never really alone – as one Facebook user told us, “I’ve dined there a few times alone and loved it!”
Obi Restaurant
(Long Street, Cape Town)
With dim lighting, wooden finishes and the comforting sound of chopsticks clinking, Obi on Long is a spot that feels like home to 1,411 solo diners. Papa San and Chef Ben Bettendorf are known for their welcoming smiles, and often check in making sure everyone feels part of the fam. So whether you’re there for a quick bowl of ramen or devouring plate after plate of sushi, it’s a great place to dine solo without feeling alone.
My second visit and food and experience were just as good. Well worth a visit.
Silk Asian Fusion
(Shortmarket Street, Cape Town)
Treat yourself to a “me” date at Silk Asian Fusion and their tapas-style dishes, cooked over a charcoal grill, great for tasting a bit of everything – and with their two-for-three special at R285, it won’t break the bank. The dim lighting and warm interior create a comforting feeling, while the friendly staff and chatting from nearby tables make you feel right at home. Don’t miss the cocktail menu – it’s worth lingering over.
The Pot Luck Club Cape Town
(Woodstock, Cape Town)
The Pot Luck Club is a solo dining dream – especially if you grab a seat at the bar counter overlooking the open kitchen, where chefs work under stage-like lighting – it’s dinner and a show! The space blends industrial design with warm, natural touches, creating a cosy vibe. Every cocktail, small plate and dessert is meticulously crafted making a table for one feel extra special. For a solo weekend treat, book for their famous Sunday brunch – bottomless bubbles, delicious dishes and a vibrant crowd to ease you into the new week.
The Strangers Club
(Green Point, Cape Town)
Tucked away in Green Point, The Strangers Club is a hidden oasis that feels world’s away from the city rush. With its high ceilings, wooden floors and exposed brick walls, it’s the kind of place where you can dive into a good book, people watch, or simply be. Popular with locals, tourists and regulars alike means that there’s always a gentle and familiar hum when you’re having an early morning breakfast or leisurely solo brunch. Before you head out make sure to explore their boutique stores for a keepsake.
Johannesburg
Aduna Bistro
(Birnam, Johannesburg)
If you’re after a solo dining experience that feels both relaxed and refined, Aduna Bistro ticks all the boxes, just ask the 2,540 guests that have dined on their own. With its elegant interior, welcoming atmosphere and exceptional food, it’s the kind of place that makes a solo date feel like a treat. Start your day with their continental breakfast buffet or swing by for lunch or dinner and dine on the likes of oxtail ragu pasta, Greek lamb chops, and Spanish prawns – add in a cocktail (or two) and settle in for some quality me-time.
AURUM Restaurant
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Head to the iconic Leonardo Hotel for a solo soiree at Aduna Bistro. The light-filled dining room, with its slanted windows and hanging art pieces, creates a stunning setting for a table for one. Sip on a cocktail as you browse the menu – from rich risottos to crispy pork belly and zesty chicken piccata, every dish is a winner you’ll be happy you don’t have to share.
The best experience ever, the food, the whole experience was to die for.
Billy G Gold Reef City Casino
(Ormonde, Johannesburg)
If your idea of solo time includes a rolling buffet of endless choice, Billy G at Gold Reef City is the spot. Dish after dish is even more tempting than the last, from perfectly grilled meats and spicy curries to pastas and decadent desserts it’s a firm favourite for those dining on their ace. If you’re in a rush load up your plate, and be on your way or draw out the feast at your own pace. While the table may be set for one, the constant hum of fellow diners means you’ve come to the right place.
Everything is extremely perfect. I wouldn’t mind dining there every day of my life. Thank you.
Blind Tiger Café
(Randburg, Johannesburg)
Blind Tiger Café in Parkview is a cosy neighbourhood gem, perfect for solo dining. With its red walls, art deco details and dark wooden furniture, the space is warm and welcoming – made even better by the friendly staff who go out of their way to make you feel at home. Sit at the bar or settle into a quiet corner for a longer stay, while tucking into a menu that is perfect for one – think grilled chorizo and fries, fillet steak sandwiches, and sweet treats. While you may be dining alone, Charlie, the resident cat, is always around to keep you company.
Club Como
(Sandton, Johannesburg)
Whisk yourself away on a Mediterranean escape at Club Como – the perfect spot for a solo feast, according to 1,448 of you. With Roman busts, ocean-blue accents and soft lighting, the coastal interior makes it feel like you’re dining seaside. The menu is true to Mediterranean style, with small plates like fried olives, meze and flatbreads that are perfect for one. Add a frozen Aperol Spritz and you’ve got the makings of a dreamy solo date.
Golden Hour Grill
(Faerie Glen, Pretoria)
Relaxed, cosy and inviting – Golden Hour Grill welcomes solo diners any time of day, with natural light pouring through the windows during the day, and soft orange lighting, lighting up the space. This dreamy Japan-inspired setting, complete with a cherry blossom tree is perfect for a bite by yourself. The menu covers everything from small, tasty small bites like Enoki rolls to comforting udon noodles and flame-grilled bowls but what steals the show is their grill sets made just for one – think short rib, lamb, king oyster mushrooms and more. As one guest said: “It’s a great place to have a Korean BBQ by yourself or even with friends. I’ve seen people sit down and watch their series while enjoying the food.”
LeSi Restaurant at Casa Toscana
(Lynwood, Pretoria)
LeSi Restaurant turns a solo dining night into something truly special with dinner and a show. While you make your way through the à la carte menu, the waitstaff serenade you with live singing – adding a theatrical flair to your meal. The setting is cosy, with candlelight, draped curtains and the option to dine on the verandah. An in-house sommelier is also on hand to help pair the perfect glass of wine. Whether you’re in town for the night or planning a solo spoil, LeSi delivers a unique and charming experience.
Proud Mary
(Rosebank, Johannesburg)
Set in Rosebank’s lively foodie district, Proud Mary is a mid-century modern dream – and a great pick for solo dining any time of day. Warm, nostalgic interiors, giant mirrors and a central bar make the space feel both stylish and welcoming with service to match, and the menu offers just the right mix of small plates and ‘nibbles’ – ideal for pairing with a crisp glass of wine while you soak up your surroundings.
The Station Parkhurst
(Randburg, Johannesburg)
All aboard for a solo date at The Station in Parkhurst – a London-inspired restaurant that brings Waterloo vibes to Jozi. Whether you’re grabbing a morning coffee, settling in for a leisurely lunch, or dining solo at dinner, it’s a great spot to enjoy your own company. With over 150 gins on offer and a globe-trotting menu of small plates, meze, burgers and more, you’ll be spoilt for choice – even when dining alone.
To Make The Cut
- The restaurants must be listed on Dineplan and actively accepting guest reviews.
- The restaurants must be located in South Africa.
- Each restaurant must have received 50 or more 1-seater reservations within the past 13 months (February 2024 – March 2025), or have been recommended by followers in a Dineplan social media survey done in March 2025.
- All 1-seater reservations are current as of 18 March 2025.
0 Comments