Table for One.
A couple weeks ago I got a middle of the night message from the husband of one of my high school friends – he had to steal his wife’s phone to get contact info for people he knew his wife would want to see for a surprise 50th birthday party.
It didn’t start until 8 but I thought I’d have to work late anyway but wouldn’t you know it, no one signed up for night secretary! I had time to fix my hair and put some makeup on.
The venue I was going to was in the West Loop. If I had the money I would live in that neighborhood. Lots of new construction and tons of restaurants.
I settled on Bar Siena. I walked in and asked if I could sit outside. He asked “how many in your party?” “One.” He kind of looked shocked but said he’d seat me in a minute.
He then handed the hostess one menu and she said “can you hand me another menu?” He then told her it was a table for one. She replied “just one?!”
Yes, I know it’s not the norm but plenty of people dine alone.
I got a Peroni on tap – it’s one of my favorite beers on tap and one that Tony would actually order other than Miller Lite.
I wasn’t sure if there was going to be food at the party, or just drinks, so I ordered the burrata – omg – so good!
Cheese is totally okay for dinner, no?
I had never heard of BLVD before. From the outside it didn’t look like much – just a giant black building.
But it was super fancy inside and nearly every table was full. They had a private room on the second floor.
Wine was handed out when you walked in and they had a full open bar. They had apps too, but I was full from my cheese plate.
Loren was so surprised when she arrived – her husband was so happy he was able to pull it off without her finding out.
It was so nice to catch up with old friends.
One friend flew in all the way from Israel for the weekend to surprise her!
But when I looked at this picture all I see is how fat I am. Gah. This time last year I was already down 20 pounds.
I know I’ll be up on the scale tomorrow but I have to face the music and get my focus back.
I forgot to plug in my laptop last night so I am blogging from my phone – I can only text with one hand 🤚 😂
Happy Friday friends – make it a great day!
Biz, you look great. So youthful!
Thanks you Jan! I appreciate it!
You need to kick that inner voice to the curb. You are amazing and we all have our struggles with food at different times. The fact that you track and even take time after a busy day to make a homemade healthy meal speaks volumes. Stop beating yourself up. The Burrata, OMG, I have never had it but want to fly out to get it for dinner right this very moment. Now I’m on a mission to find someplace here that has something similar. What a great surprise for both you and your friend on her birthday. ((Hugs))
Kym, do you have Whole Foods by you? They sell it there – they also sell it at The Fresh Market – but not sure if that’s in Florida or not.
It’s usually in a plastic container, sometimes in a briny solution – but its so buttery and creamy – the spicy apricot spread on the crusty bread – perfect combo!
ps: I am always hyper-critical of myself in pictures so I understand. I feel so bad for people like us who have such mean inner voices. xoxo
I try to tell that bitch to shut up – but she never listens 😀 xoxoxo
Burrata is my desert island food. I could eat my weight in it!
OMG, mine too! And I just found a recipe to make it at home – I’ll let you know how it turns out.
Oh Lordy. When I was living in DC for the 2 years after Mike left to go to CA, I ate out all the time…by myself. It was a treat for me to walk a few blocks to the Pentagon City mall. I had a couple of favorite spots. I’d sit and read a book, and eat.
Same thing “only one???” Yes. Geez you’d think they would get used to seeing me.
You look lovely, don’t be so hard on yourself.
Thanks Marcia – I do enjoy my own company but it just felt odd after the reaction I got about “only one?!”
Hugs my friend!
I agree with the ladies who posted before me 100%. I see a beautiful lady with an infectious smile in that photo. My family surprised me in October for my 50th. They totally got me- so much fun! I hope your weekend is good!
I’ve had a great weekend – cathartic in ways – I am trying not to be so hard on myself about things I can’t control.
Hope you enjoyed your weekend as well!
You had me at Burrata.
I love to dine alone! I am frequently by myself at cafes doing work. I think dining alone is liberating. I remember the first time I went out to eat by myself was during my semester abroad in Mexico. I was visiting Mexico City and went to dinner alone. I enjoy my own company!!
You look wonderful Biz. You know I struggle with my weight as well. I’ve given up on thinking there will be an end to it so I just keep trying to live the healthiest life I can. I won’t give up trying but I’m done thinking this will ever get easier.
Thanks Aimee – it was just so weird the reaction I got when I said I was dining alone!
I am loving following you on Instagram and Carlos is growing up so fast!!! Enjoy his baseball season – I miss Hannah’s softball season.
I don’t see what you see in the photo! I see a happy woman who is living life and enjoying celebrations with friends! We are too hard on ourselves, for sure. I never used to dine alone, always thinking others figured I was a loner and had no friends. Just the opposite…it’s a quiet time to enjoy myself and a good dish without having to concentrate on conversation and being “proper”. Great one-handed texting, BTW!
Thanks Kathy – I appreciate your comment! We are our own worst critics, aren’t we?!
Hugs!