I can add my 2 bits. I know all the staff at my local diner; I chat with the owners and chefs regularly. We talk about food, the weather, their college schedule

I can add my 2 bits. I know all the staff at my local diner; I chat with the owners and chefs regularly. We talk about food, the weather, their college schedule, vacation plans. Then I eat eggs and potatoes and go my merry way. It's much better than sitting alone at a corner 1-person table, at least for me. Any club is the same way - people who are not (all) your friends but you get along with and have something to do together.