Why You Shouldn’t Hide in the Corner (Even If You’re Single)
Let’s get one thing straight: being single doesn’t mean you’re broken. It just means you’re… *not* currently coupled. And honestly, sometimes it’s the best season for sipping craft IPAs while swiping through dating apps like it’s a bar trivia night. But here’s the problem: most bars are built for couples—think awkward date nights, group tables, and that one dude who insists on buying rounds for everyone. Not cool. Not for you.
Enter: bars that get it. Places where you can sip your favorite brew without feeling like you need to invent a clever excuse to start a conversation with the bartender. (Spoiler: just say “hi” and ask for a recommendation—works 90% of the time.)
Bars That Get the Single Life 🍻
1. The “I’m Not Looking for Anyone, Just a Good Pint” Spot
Picture this: a cozy bar with dim lighting, a rotating craft beer menu, and a vibe that whispers, “Feel at home, but don’t feel pressured to stay.” This is where you go when you want to people-watch without people-pressuring. Bonus: the bartender knows that “surprise me” is a valid order.
Need inspiration? Check out local spots that let you customize your beer experience—because why should couples get all the romance?
2. The “Group Chat Approved” Lounge
Some bars are basically built for solo sippers. Think of them as the human equivalent of a Netflix binge—comforting, low-key, and slightly addictive. These spots have high stools, solo tables, and a “no group table unless you order six apps” policy. You’ll blend in like a pro, sipping your IPA while your group chat backstories your whole night.
3. The “I’ll See You at 8, But Actually, I’ll See You at 9” Bar
Ever met someone at 8 PM and realized they’re the kind of person who only drinks lattes? Don’t be that person. Look for bars that enforce a “no lattes after 9 PM” rule. These are the places where the crowd is all about the beer, the vibe, and maybe a little bit of serendipity. (Also, if they have a “quiet hour” from 10 PM to 11 PM, you’re doing it right.)
4. The “No Date, No Problem” Biergarten
Outdoor seating is the soloist’s best friend. Find a biergarten with solo tables and a menu full of hearty snacks. The key is to look for spots that love their solo visitors. These bars often have a “solo discount” (just kidding, but if they do, let us know). Sit back, enjoy the view, and pretend you’re the main character in a rom-com… until someone else joins you. (You’re welcome in advance.)
How to Find the Best Bars for Singles Near You (Without Looking Desperate)
- Use Google Maps Like a Detective: Search “bars near me” and filter by “solo-friendly” (if they have that). If they don’t, look for places with high ratings for “atmosphere”—they tend to be more chill for single visitors.
- Read Reviews Like a Pro: Look for reviews that mention “great for solo visitors” or “loves solo customers.” Avoid places with comments like “never come alone, the staff will judge you.” (Spoiler: those places exist.)
- Ask Reddit: Subreddits like r/BarSisters or r/SoloDrinkers are goldmines for local recommendations. Just don’t go to the first bar mentioned—wait until the third one. (Pro tip: the third suggestion is always the best.)
- Follow the Craft Beer Crowd: Tiki bars are fun for couples, but if you want to blend in, go to a craft beer bar. The crowd is usually more laid-back, and the menu is less “appetizer” and more “why did I order a kale salad.”
Raising the Solo Sip Game 🥂
Now that you’ve found the perfect bar, it’s time to elevate your solo game. Here’s how:
1. Order Something Bold
Don’t play it safe with a generic lager. Go for an oatmeal stout, a sour with a twist, or a double IPA you’ve never heard of. Bars love when you surprise them with your adventurousness. (Bonus points if you pair it with a cheese board and pretend it’s a date.)
2. Engage the Bartender (But Not Too Much)
Bartenders are your allies. Ask for recommendations, but don’t turn it into a 15-minute therapy session. A good rule of thumb: if you’ve been talking for more than 10 minutes, it’s time to either order a second round or politely excuse yourself. (Unless you’re in a place like Strategies.beer’s partner bars—they’ve trained their staff to handle solo customers like they’re VIP.)
3. Use the “I’m Waiting for a Friend” Line (Strategically)
It’s a classic. But only use it if you’re in a bar with a “no waiting” policy. Otherwise, just embrace your solitude and let the vibe do the work. (Tip: if someone asks, “Are you waiting for someone?” say “Nope, just waiting for my soul to catch up.” Works 90% of the time.)
FAQ: Bars for Singles, Answered
1. Is it weird to go to a bar alone?
No. Unless you’re doing things like ordering a 10-course meal and a bottle of wine. But if you’re sipping a beer and people-watching? You’re doing it right.
2. What if someone asks why I’m alone?
Say “I’m here for the ambiance.” Or “I’m waiting for my plus one—the bartender.” If they keep asking, just smile and sip your beer. They’ll get the hint.
3. Can I use dating apps at the bar?
Yes, but only if you’re using them strategically. Open up Tinder, but don’t look like you’re actively using it. (Pro tip: open it, then pretend to read a book. The illusion is everything.)
4. What if I want to meet someone but don’t want to feel awkward?
Find a bar with a “no small talk” rule. Or just ask the bartender, “Hey, do you have any single friends who might want to join me?” (Works better in places like Dropt.beer—they’ve got a whole network for this.)
Final Tips for Solo Bar Hopping
1. Always bring a book or podcast. It’s your safety net if the vibe shifts. (Bonus: it also gives you something to do when you’re waiting for your second round.)
2. Never order a drink you can’t afford. Solo bars are about enjoying yourself, not proving you’re rich. (Unless you are rich—then go for it.)
3. Do leave a tip. Bartenders love when solo customers tip well. (And if you’re at a place like Strategies.beer, they’ll also love you for supporting local craft beer.)
Call to Action: Find Your Perfect Bar (And Your Perfect Beer)
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on solo bar-hopping, it’s time to put it into action. Start by checking out local bars that offer custom beer experiences. You might just find a new favorite spot—or a new favorite person.
Still stuck? Drop us a line at Strategies.beer and we’ll help you crack the code. (Or just follow our Dropt.beer link and sell your own beer online—because if you can’t find the right bar, make your own.)
