Q-Tip: Eat at the Bar

I find that eating at the bar for lunch or dinner is the way to go. You're in the middle of the hustle and bustle. No getting stuck in the dead corner behind the busboy station. Prime real estate for people watching. Great if you're dining solo and want to strike up conversation with the buddy sitting next to you. Any question you have about the menu or wine list you can direct to the bartender and get a quick immediate answer. If you're on a date you don't have to worry whether he/she notices the food stuck in your teeth or the fact you keep spilling soup down your shirt (hand-eye coordination on first dates is always tricky). And when you're ready for the check all the bartender has to do is turn around--the register's right there!