It's not awkward if you sit at the bar. Just bring your smartphone. When you have a chance, talk to the bartender. Eventually, someone else is going to sit down

It's not awkward if you sit at the bar. Just bring your smartphone. When you have a chance, talk to the bartender. Eventually, someone else is going to sit down, and see that you're friendly with the bartender, so you must be a nice guy. Then maybe you'll talk to them.