[advanced-DnD]

> I absolutely hate how eating at a restaurant is seen by many as an event where you hang out forever, as opposed to a routine service I expect as a fairly quick and formulaic pitstop between other obligations.

Cultural difference. If you don't want to spend time with your friends then don't accept invitations of going to a restaurant.

[nitwit005]

It is a cultural difference, but it's fairly clear it wasn't always enjoyed. People in some parts of Europe really appreciated fast food places when they first started appearing, as it gave them an option that cut out much of the restaurant meal time expenditure.

[vmception]

Nope, I’m going to enjoy the cuisine experience with friends or solo and still want to get out of there in a timely manner. It’s not the only thing I am going to do that morning, afternoon, or evening.

[atatatat]

What if I want to socialize with people before, during, and after we eat...just for 20 minutes, though, not an hour plus?