me_simon wrote:Side question - who pays? Does the restaurant pay or will the table pay? Because if I'm approached for anything in a sit-down food place, I always say no early on because I assume they want my money for something.
There are books written on this very subject. It is also why most successful restaurant performers I know don't take tips. And pretty much start out by telling the guest that they are paid by the restaurant to do this, so it's a free service, no need to even tip! There are several ways to say this and it always puts the guests at ease.
Becuase you are so right. The last thing I want is yet more money to leave my pocket when I go to eat.