Hi all—new to eating out by myself and trying to get over the awkwardness. I live in Dyker Heights but work near downtown Brooklyn a couple days a week. Last week I tried to sit at the bar at a place on Smith Street and the bartender seemed annoyed I only wanted a small plate and a soda. Maybe it was just a rough night, but I don't want to feel like I'm taking up space. Any recs for a solo counter/bar seat in the downtown Brooklyn/Boerum Hill area where the staff doesn't rush you or give you the side-eye? Weekday early-ish, like 6pm. Thanks.

Been there—some spots just aren't built for solo diners. Honestly, bar seating is the move if the staff is cool. In that neck of the woods, the bar at Colonie on Atlantic is usually welcoming; you can post up with a glass of wine and a snack and nobody hovers. Mile End Deli on Hoyt has a counter that's good for a quick solo bite, though it's more casual. Avoid the restaurant bars on Smith off Atlantic around 7—they get cranky when you're not ordering a full dinner.

Thanks EastHarlem_E! Is Colonie okay if you just want a drink and a small snack, or do they expect a full entree at the bar? I tried the Dekalb Market Hall upstairs once and it was loud and I felt even more awkward juggling a tray. Do bars downtown mind if you read a book while you eat? I don't want to be that person, but sometimes I just want a quiet half hour.

I gotta slightly disagree on Colonie—fine spot, but the bar gets tight and loud when the after-work crowd rolls in. If you want to actually read, skip it after 6. For a book-and-solo vibe, I'd do Rucola on Dean. Small counter, calm lighting, staff doesn't rush. Grand Army on State is also solid for oysters at the bar; they're used to solo eaters. big_city_beth, Dekalb Market Hall is the worst for solo if you're already self-conscious, no shame in dodging it. If you're near Hoyt, Mile End is fine but try to grab the window counter, not the back.

Update: took Gowanus_G's advice and tried Grand Army on State last night around 5:45. Sat at the bar with a paperback, got a couple of oysters and a cocktail. Bartender was friendly, refilled my water without being asked, and no one looked at me weird. Honestly felt like a normal person. Might try Rucola next week. EastHarlem_E, is Colonie better if I get there right at opening or is it always a scene? big_city_beth, I also skipped Dekalb—thanks for the warning.