Table for one

Whether you are single, travelling, people watching or simply looking for peace of mind, dining solo will have the answers. kasmin fernandes picks Mumbai's super 7 joints where going solo is a joy

Moderate
Table: Walk in

The single and self-employed in Bandra often drop in here for a laidback breakfast or lunch.

Plain coffee, toast and butter or sandwiches, salads and shakes; JATC offers a wide variety of fodder for the hungry. You can also order from the adjoining pizzeria or Cafu00c3u00a9 Coffee Day outlets outdoors.
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But it's the chilled out, casual vibe that really pulls in trendy college students, and folk from advertising and fashion by the dozens.u00a0

At: 110 Cyrus House, opposite St Theresa School, Junction of 24th and 30th Road, TPS III, Bandra (W). Call: 26006717

Cafe Basilico
Pricing: Expensive
Table: Book a table one day prior

When you are not admiring the colonial design, plush wooden interiors or swish SoBo crowd, gaze outside the large glass windows for a great street view.

The staff is courteous and the vibe friendly; so the self-absorbed can chew on their Penne Pasta in peace.

The Char Grilled Rawas, Grilled Chicken Sandwich and Beaten Steak each served with veggies are tops. Don't miss the Oreo Cheesecake.u00a0
At: Sentinel House, Ground Floor, HN Marg, near Radio Club, Colaba. Call: 66345671

Hard Rock Cafe
Pricing: Expensive
Table: Walk in
When you are in a zanier mood and don't have (or need) company, head to this popular venue and prop yourself on a bar stool.

Frizzy-haired rockheads, great music, live acts, stiff cocktails and shiny, happy waiters will keep you thoroughly entertained.

The music is loud enough to drown out conversation, so the diners pretty much don't talk (most are conversation-worthy cute, though). Nurse a Martini, soak in the vibe, and you'll leave happier than when you
came in.u00a0

At: Bombay Dyeing Mills Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Worli.
Call: 24382888u00a0

< Candies
Pricing: Moderate
Table: Walk in
This particular branch of the bakery and cafu00c3u00a9 has an outdoor section that looks straight out of the garden in Alice in Wonderland.

An endless garden, cool greenery, wrought iron tables and chairs, wooden benches, mellow music and sweet treats. Self service ensures you can eat and/or work in peace for hours together without having a waiter whisk you out.

If you want to end your singledom, however, we suggest the indoors teeming with hot senoritas. Don't miss the Lasagna, mini sweets, cakes and Lemon Tart.
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At: Mac Ronells, 5AA Pali Hill, St Andrew's Road, near Learners Academy, Pali Hill, Bandra (W).
Call: 26424124 / 26422324

Bayview Cafe
Pricing: Moderate
Table: Walk in
This terrace restaurant is open from 8 am to midnight, but we suggest you get there for a serene breakfast (served till noon) to watch the sea in all its glory.

It has the best view on the entire stretch better than the 5-stars even of the bobbing yachts, ferries and seagulls. The Parsi dishes are perfect for breakfast (Akoori or Masala Omelette with bread).u00a0

At: Hotel Harbour View (above Strand Hotel), Kerawalla Chambers, Apollo Bunder, opposite Radio Club, Colaba. Call: 22821089

Firangi Paani
Pricing: Expensive
Table: Barstool is best for singles
Irrespective of the day of the week, the spacious Andheri branch is full to capacity with the trendier creative types from studios around.
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Park yourself in the bar area and strike up an interesting conversation as you sip on an overpriced Mojito.

The bar is also closest to the stage where live acts belt out radio-friendly rock almost every night. The pizzas are authentic Italian, and the steaks well done.u00a0
At: Fun Republic, Level 3, Andheri (W).
Call: 26744144

Dummies' guide to eating alone
Smile politely and look away when other diners shoot off curious glances.

If you get conscious in public places, take a book to read at intervals.

Don't dress skimpily (if you do, carry yourself with quiet confidence).

If you have to visit the bathroom in the middle of the meal, inform the waiter that you'll be back soon. They might just clear your table.

Don't stare too long if you catch someone's eye while people-watching. Smile and slowly look away.

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