[wyclif]

I like this solution the best because it is the least intrusive. Before the waiter brings the bill, put your phone on the table so it's ready when they arrive with the bill. No need for the waitstaff to waste cycles or get distracted by having to look for a green card.

[ryandrake]

In the US you constantly have to beg the waitstaff to stick around. They show up and ask if you want water. If you don’t deliberately say “we are also ready to order drinks” they will then disappear. When they take the drink order, you have to deliberately say “we’ll order food now.” If you order appetizers, they will disappear unless you immediately continue with your main course order. Then of course there’s the whole multiple trip song and dance when you pay. Are waiters paid by the step rather than by the hour?

[sundaeofshock]

Speaking as a former wait person…

It is more efficient this way. Often times the wait person may have multiple tables sat at the same time. This way they can greet each table shortly after sitting (you don’t want to know how people react if they wait “too long” for that first greeting). Then take drink orders for all tables, get those delivered, take apps, get those fired. While those are cooking, get the mains ordered, and so on.

Yes, some people want to order all at once. However, that’s not most guests. Most folks want to sit at the table and relax for 1.5 - 2 hours and hate feeling rushed.

I don’t think most people realize how hard a job it is to wait tables. I think everyone would be well served by working as a wait person in their early work years.

[fragmede]

Or retail, in some fashion, to see how it is from that side of the store.

[wyclif]

A good waiter will ask you if you're ready to order at each stage.