The Etiquette Rule To Follow At Waffle House When Dining Solo

When you're solo roadtripping and need a late-night bite because you burned through the miles between cities, Waffle House is often there to fill you up. Even if it's 2 a.m., the diner chain will cook up smothered and covered hashbrowns, a fresh waffle loaded with pecans, and two over-easy eggs. However, if you are dining alone, they kindly ask you not to take a booth and instead sit at the counter so everyone who's hungry can have a spot.

Sitting at the counter is a great way to watch the chefs at work. When Anthony Bourdain first fell in love with the Waffle House, he sat at the counter with his guide and friend, Chef Sean Brock, who attributed growing up watching the staff there cook as the genesis of his career. We're not saying you're going to change your line of work, but it's a great spot to watch and get inspired. Plus, if you're open to a bit of conversation, the staff will gladly chat.

Eating solo can often carry an unwarranted stigma, but it's not weird to go to a restaurant alone. Some people feel awkward walking into a restaurant and requesting a table for one, but Waffle House is known for its welcoming, inclusive environment. As long as they don't disturb the peace, all are welcome.

Yes, Waffle House has a reputation for some late-night antics from the customers. It can happen, but it's rare. The internet tends to amplify the rare times a late-night fight breaks out. That being said, the atmosphere will most likely be rowdier if you go on a weekend night right when the bars close. Whether or not this is a bonus or a detraction is up to you!

To allay some anxiety, it may help to prepare. Our guide to some rules to know before eating at Waffle House will set you up to act like a regular on your first trip! As Anthony Bourdain found in his first trip to a Waffle House, the potential hashbrowns additions can be overwhelming. Find the right toppings that work for you. Your options are smothered (onions), covered (cheese), chunked (ham), diced (tomatoes), peppered (jalapeños), capped (mushrooms), topped (chili), and country (sausage gravy). Can't decide? You can always order "all the way" to get them fully loaded.