More Canadians are eating and travelling alone, and they are loving it.  

A new consumer research by a travel search engine and restaurant reservation company, shows more than half of Canadians say they travel solo at least once a year and 86 per cent have dined solo at a sit-down restaurant in the past 12 months. 

While travelling solo is not uncommon, dining solo in public is still one of those things most people fear. There’s even a word for it: solomangarephobia.

According to Kayak and OpenTable, Victoria, B.C. is the top destination for solo dining and travel in Canada, with “me-time” as the number one reason to eat out.

The top solo dining spots in the capital based on diner insights are Finn’s Seafood, Chops and Cocktails, The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Saanich, Bin 4 Burger Lounge – West Shore Victoria, Aura Waterfront Restaurant + Patio and Vista 18 Restaurant + Lounge.

OpenTable experts also came up with their own list of the best spots for solo diners which include Ferris’ Upstairs Seafood and Oyster Bar, Superflux {Cabana}, Faro – Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Menbow Ramen Bar and Cafe Brio.

Solo dining is up 16 per cent year-over-year in Canada, according to the data (detailed breakdown can be found here: www.opentable.ca/c/en/solo-dining/) 

“It’s one of the standout dining trends this year and we expect it to continue into the next year, with 73 per cent of Canadians planning to dine solo in the next 12 months,” Matt Davis, OpenTable Canada country director, said.

Data also shows Canadians like people-watching or reading while eating solo.

“Restaurants are increasingly adapting to these habits, offering kitchen views to watch the chefs at work and cozy, quiet booths tucked away for the ultimate reading ambiance,” Davis added.

OpenTable also noted that solo diners tend to be big spenders, splurging 43 per cent more than any other diner, averaging around $82. 

A list of the top travel destinations for Canadians to conquer solo can be found here.