[marjorie]

Please don't ask me if I want change. If I don't want any, please allow me to feel for 30 seconds like a big shot by letting ME say "We're all set". Please check back 2 minutes or so after food has been delivered so if there's a problem we've had time to discover it, and even the fastest eaters aren't done yet! Don't ask me if I'd like a water refill. It doesn't cost too much to fill, so please just take care of it. If I'm drinking lots of water at a restaurant the food is usually oversalted and I'm trying to cope without calling attention to a problem you can't easily correct. LRJohnson had some great suggestions. Also try to avoid screaming across the floor at waitstaff... I'm here because I don't want to hear exuberance, just a reasonable quiet, convivial meal alone or with friends. If I'm dining alone, don't say "Just you?" It forces me to say something like "There may be only one of me, but it's a good one!" Table for one is fine. PrincessPerky also had some especially thoughtful ideas. Additionally small children (up through maybe toddlers) will often be more cooperative if you give a little something to a parent in case it's needed, like crackers or a little bread. Hungry and tired little ones add stress for all. Fork and knife crossed over one another with fork tines down generally indicates a plate I'm finished with. Even if you don't have time to come over to me, please give me a chance to let you know with a look or simple gesture if I need something. You don't always have to come to me, but let me know you are available. So many good ideas I'd print the whole thread!