Grumpy Old Men

Do you receive terrible service at restaurants? Here's a handy trick. Ask the server, "if you were going to die today, if you knew it was all ending, what would you order?" Yes, the question is morbid, but it shakes them out of routine, and gets their attention for the most important question; what would they do? Whether or not you actually care is irrelevant. Impressing upon them their opinion matters is the ticket to good service. Everyone wants to feel like they're important, they're different, they're trusted; listening to their choice says all that, and that's when you have them! That server will dote all night on your table, on the people who care about them. And, who knows, maybe their selection is truly great.

Of course, you don't have to opt for their suggestion. Good lord, no! The key, however, is phrasing the "thanks, but no thanks," in a way that won't deflate the server and send them away dejected.

Ideas?

Make stuff up about yourself. "Great idea, but I can't do spicy." "I was thinking about that, but I am lactose intolerant." "That looks so good! I wish I could eat that, but I am trying to loose weight." It's the restaurant equivalent to "it's not you, it's me.". You'll eventually settle on a server suggestion, all the while letting him/her feel empowered.

You'll suddenly have more drink refills then you'll know what to do with.