We were lucky to catch up with Dana Prophet recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dana, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

Dining alone feels taboo, and this feeling was magnified after the COVID-19 shutdown when people were allowed to gather again but at a distance. I didn’t want to wait for my friends who were busy with their lives or hope a potential date would join me at an exciting and unique restaurant. So, I took it upon myself to go on dining adventures alone.

Dana Dines Solo was born.

Dana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started my career as a copywriter and decided to join the culinary world as a pastry chef. My mother and grandmother were my inspiration as they passed down delectable Southern African-American desserts to me. It’s in my blood and heritage.

I ventured out by starting my business, The Pastry Prophet, where I was fortunate enough to appear on cable shows like Food Rush and local shows like FYI Philly and Check Please, Philly.

Sadly, during the pandemic, I lost my job and returned to website copywriting. Now that things are back to normal (somewhat), I want to use my knowledge and palate to show people the joy of dining in various cuisines alone.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I want to show people that the world is vast and there’s so much to see and do. The best way to travel is with your taste buds. Food culture can differ within the same state, let alone country. I want people to stop fearing trying restaurants or cafes just because they are alone.

I wouldn’t consider myself an extrovert or an introvert. I love talking to people about food—their favorite restaurant, spots unknown to tourists, what kind of pizza is the best and why, or their opinion on a local brewery!

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I knew not to be afraid. I think fear is holding so many of us back, whether it’s the fear of failure or looking foolish. When starting a venture, plan well, but swallow your fear!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @DanaDinesSolo
• Other: TikTok @DanaDinesSolo

Image Credits

Dana Prophet