There’s a great place to eat down the road that you want to try but your mates are tied up with work or too busy to come with you.

So what to do?

You could stay indoors and make do with looking at other people’s Instagram posts or you could go along on your own.

There shouldn’t be a stigma with having a meal out by yourself, whether your solitude is enforced or through choice because you fancy a bit of ‘me time’.

And there are actually some great solo dining experiences around if you’re brave enough to try or know where to look.

Here, lifestyle blogger Thoroughly Modern Milly reveals some of her favourite places for dining alone that are in SE London or within easy reach.

Goddards At Greenwich

News Shopper:

If you find yourself alone in Greenwich and in need of a hearty lunch, Goddards is a great option.

This family-run pie shop has been open since 1890, serving tasty pies and amazing mash.

News Shopper:

Goddards is always full of solo diners so you’ll never feel in the minority.

Sparrow, Lewisham

News Shopper:

Sparrow is a charming eatery run by husband and wife team Terry Blake and Yohini Nandakumar.

The food has a Sri Lankan influence and the dining room offers a relaxed feel.

The small size and casual vibe make Sparrow the perfect choice for solo dining.

Babur, Forest Hill

News Shopper:

Babur in Forest Hill is known by curry fans as one of London’s best Indian restaurants.

Choose from unique recipes like ostrich tikka and settle into a spicy feast for one.

News Shopper:

The venue always has a lovely atmosphere so you’ll feel immersed in the culinary experience whether you are dining alone or in a group.

Browns of Brockley

News Shopper:

Next door to Brockley station you’ll find Browns of Brockley, a speciality coffee shop with an impressive array of baked goods.

Take a window seat at the communal counter and tuck into a slice of the delicious toasted banana bread.

Rail House Cafe, Victoria

News Shopper:

Though not in SE London, Rail House Café isn’t far away and is well worth a mention.

Featuring a relaxed atmosphere and neutral, light interiors, Rail House Café is the perfect spot to enjoy a spot of brunch and watch the world go by.

News Shopper:

Sony has partnered with Thoroughly Modern Millie for the recommendations of these best solo dining spots to mark the launch of its WH-1000XM2 noise cancelling headphones. The headphones are the ideal solo dining accompaniment, drowning out noise from the outside world so you can enjoy your meal in peace.