Table for one: New York’s best restaurants to dine at alone

Some notoriously tough reservations become much easier when you’re seeking a table for one or a seat at the bar.

By Jasmine Moy Tue Dec 4 2012

Table for one: Hearth

Hearth
Photograph: Cinzia Castello-Real

Table for one: Eleven Madison Park

Eleven Madison Park
Table for one: Locanda Verde

Locande Verde
Table for one: Joseph Leonard

Joseph Leonard
Photograph: Virginia Rollison

Table for one: Franny's

Franny's

Table for one: Hearth

Hearth

Price band: 2/4

This New American’s coveted kitchen-pass seats, which offer an up-close peek at chef Marco Canora working his magic, are walk-in only—prime solo-dining real estate and one of the best dinner views in Manhattan. • 646-602-1300, restauranthearth.com.

403 E 12th St, (at First Ave), 10009-40

More info

Eleven Madison Park

Price band: 4/4
Critics choice

Though parties of one may shy away from formal settings, this should be your exception. The staff here is especially generous to solo diners, so enjoy chef Daniel Humm’s array of modernist, seasonal dishes . • 212-889-0905, elevenmadisonpark.com.

11 Madison Ave, (at 24th St), 10010

Book online

Locanda Verde

Rated as: 4/5
Price band: 2/4
Critics choice

Scoring a reservation is tough at Andrew Carmellini’s rustic Italian spot, but a single bar seat is usually available with little to no wait. When you arrive, ask the bartenders to add you to their list, and spend a few moments deciding what to order. • 212-925-3797, locandaverdenyc.com.

377 Greenwich St, (between Franklin and North Moore Sts)

More info

Joseph Leonard

Rated as: 4/5
Price band: 2/4
Critics choice

Gabriel Stulman’s cozy restaurant has a convivial bar to match. Nab a stool around the L-shaped focal point; the close quarters make striking up a conversation refreshingly easy. • 646-429-8383, josephleonard.com.

170 Waverly Pl, (at Grove St)

More info

Franny’s

Price band: 2/4
Critics choice

The no-reservation policy at this Brooklyn institution means the wait can be harsh, but the large bar provides seating for one in a fraction of the time. • frannysbrooklyn.com.