I don’t like packed restaurants, I don’t like a lot of noise, I don’t appreciate big screens over a bar, and I don’t like bright lights if I can avoid them. I don’t like sticky or otherwise dirty menus and I will run my fingers over the table to feel if I feel grime or crumbs. That will make me either get up and find a guy to wipe the table, or wet some paper towels and wipe it myself.
I do appreciate a nice restroom. In fact, what prompted my question above about the restrooms in restaurants was because I write online reviews and I rarely mention the restroom, but it’s always a thought, whether it’s nice or not and how well it goes with the quality of the restaurant.
I don’t usually wait long to be seated, unless I’m desperate and there’s not many other choices in the area.
I appreciate the server coming within five minutes for drink order, letting me know when things are held up in the kitchen, and I don’t expect the entree to arrive when I’m still eating the salad or having an appetizer. I don’t have appetizers too often, but if we are having one, don’t pile the entree up on top of it and then something is going to get cold.
I like a server who is personable. I like a server who doesn’t disappear after we’ve eaten whatever we ended with. I don’t like to have to hunt the server down to ask for the bill. If we’re not in a rush, the bill can sit on the table.
Of course, the company I am with is of the utmost importance, because the restaurant can be the best in the world but if I can’t stand my companion(s), then I’m happier eating a bagel at home in front of the TV.