reality check: is it acceptable for women to eat out alone?

Of course it's fine to, if you enjoy eating out then by all means do it whatever other people think doesn't matter you know, just do you!

I don't see a reason why you should not dine out alone. You don't have to give anyone an explanation. You do it for your own happiness and being on your own makes you stronger. Have fun!

It is a choice on who you want to go out with; you don't always have to be in a group. If you enjoy going out by yourself, then go.

Absolutely!!!! I am 40 and I dine out by myself occasionally (when my daughter isn't interested in eating somewhere that I have been looking forward to trying the food). Several years ago, I came to the realization that most people are too self-absorbed to care about what a random stranger is doing. Sometimes I bring something to read or just enjoy the alone time. Best wishes!