Want to try drinking alone but super nervous about being judged? Go to a hotel bar. Nobody judges solo drinkers in hotel bars since it’s so common.
During the week, aim to get to the bar before 9 pm. You probably won’t have to worry about crowds if it’s a local haunt, though. If you’re going on the weekend, you’re best off getting to the bar between 4-6 pm before the big dinner rush hits. At a club or hype dance bar, you’ve usually got up to 11pm to slide in underneath the barrage of people. Pro tip: If you show up and there’s a line, you probably want a different spot. [3] X Research source
If you want to be left alone and enjoy the weather, sit at a table outside if there’s plenty of seating! If you’re going out to watch the big game among other fans, sit near the biggest TV, but not in the most central spot, since you may be bothered by riled up fans.
If they ask you to pay and you hand them a card, they may ask “open or closed?” Pick open if you want to have multiple drinks–they’ll hold your card and keep a tab going. Pick closed if you’re just having one drink. Don’t you dare feel an ounce of shame for ordering something “uncool” or fruity. Sweet drinks are awesome–those hoppy IPA drinkers can kick rocks if they’ve got beef with your choice. Totally lost on what to order? Pick a draft beer or a simple well cocktail (like a rum and coke, or vodka soda). Nurse that while you peruse the menu.
Want a quick and easy way to get two drinks in you? Order a boilermaker, which is a shot of hard liquor and a beer. Many bars offer a “house” boilermaker based on their well whiskey and cheapest draft beer.
If you bring a laptop, sit near an outlet and aim for corner seating at a small table or the edge of the bar. Watch out if it’s the weekend and after 4 pm—some drunk bozo could spill a drink near you! If you want to just chill on your phone, that’s totally fine. Just know that your phone sends the message that you don’t want to be approached in the way a book or laptop won’t, since your head will be down. Books are great because they’re easy to pick up and put down. You will also get some fun convos with strangers who are interested by your literary selection. Plus, you’ll just look smart if you’re trying to meet someone. Want entertainment that doubles as a conversation piece? Bring a crossword puzzle. That way you can ask strangers for help with hints![8] X Research source
You can totally check in on the TVs that are on in the corners of the bar if you’d like to. You’ll still seem relatively open for convo if your head is up.
So long as you aren’t actively interrupting someone, you have no reason to talk yourself out of making small talk with a stranger. Let conversation develop organically. Don’t force it and let the convo flow where it may. This is a great way to put the moves on a guy or hit on a girl. Grab a seat near them and wait for an opening to comment on something notable going on nearby. You might ask them if they’ve seen whatever is playing on TV, or compliment their drink choice.
You can even pull the laid back “I’ll have what they’re having” move out if you want to seem really slick and mysterious. If the two of you keep talking and the vibe is right, ask if they’d like to hang out some time. Then, ask for their phone number and hit them up soon to kick off a beautiful friendship (or relationship!).
Don’t try to chat up the bartender if they’re obviously busy or there are a ton of people around they’ve got to serve. Some bartenders aren’t chatty. If this is your bartender, don’t take it personally.
