Eating Solo at a Michelin-Star Restaurant is a Travel Flex

I’ve dined solo before, and it’s no big deal (especially when there is bar seating). However, when there are nothing but white-clothed tables and well-dressed couples, and I’ll admit, walking into a Michelin-starred restaurant alone can feel intimidating. At Makris Athens, I was greeted by clusters of couples and groups dressed to impress, deep in conversation and toasts. It’s the kind of setting that makes you wonder if you’ll stand out. Spoiler: you won’t, unless you choose to.

With a confident smile, a simple “no one else is joining me” nod, and a sense of gratitude for the experience ahead, I settled into one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in Greece. Makris, tucked inside a modern, minimalist space in the heart of Athens, doesn’t just deliver dinner, it curates a performance. Every course is a story, every flavor intentional, and the pacing? Impeccable.

My 10-Course Journey:

• Chef’s Welcome
• Mushroom Cappuccino / Truffle / Brioche Feuilletée
• The Bouquet from the Farm with Kharmani Beluga Persian Caviar
• Two Temperatures of Greek Langoustine
• My Sourdough Bread
• Red Mullet Cooked with Its Scales / Rockfish / Kale / Wild Greens
• Hellenic Pork Iberico / White Asparagus / Fresh Peas / Chanterelles
• Pre-Dessert
• The Strawberry / Balsamic / Fennel / Basil
• Mignardises

€165 per person, with an optional juice pairing (€100) or cocktail pairing (which I should have gone with—I’ll explain why below).

Juice vs. Cocktail Pairing: A Lesson Learned

I opted for the juice pairing out of curiosity. While beautifully prepared and thoughtful, I realized halfway through that I would have enjoyed the cocktail pairing even more. Why? Because I love a creative drink. And when done well, cocktails can highlight subtle elements in a dish in unexpected ways. Next time, I’m going bold.

Dining Solo at a Michelin Star: It’s Not Awkward, It’s Empowering

Was I nervous walking in alone? No, however, once the first course arrived and the servers started casually chatting with me between plates, I felt completely at ease. No one stared and no one whispered. If anything, the other diners were mildly curious and then went back to their own food.

Dining solo is a reminder that you can celebrate yourself, indulge your curiosity, and enjoy luxury on your own terms. You don’t need an occasion or a companion to enjoy world-class dining, you are the occasion.

Final Thoughts

Makris is modern, elegant, and approachable. The food is artful without being pretentious, and the service strikes that perfect balance: professional, warm, never stiff. It’s easily one of the best Michelin experiences I’ve had recently, and I’d recommend it whether you’re dining as a duo or savoring every bite solo.

So if you’re traveling solo and hesitant about booking that Michelin-starred reservation, don’t be. Do it for yourself. Dress up, make the toast, and fully enjoy the moment. Trust me, freedom tastes as good as the food.