why do restaurants always seat you next to an occupied table even when the place is almost empty?

Answer 1

because, the hostess is going in rotation. every server gets an even number of tables, and when you are sat, you are sat in the next server on rotations section.

this often means that you are going to be sat next to someone else.

if you don't like the table you've been sat at, then (nicely) ask the hostess if you can have a table more suited to your needs.

but know that it is really annoying when someone ask to be sat in a section that has already been closed out. (meaning that that server has already been cut from the floor and has already cleaned, refilled, and set up that table for closing)

Answer 2

Ask for a different table.
Your luck is better than mine. I seem to be seated near the dish room, kitchen, or public bathrooms. Any of those gets an automatic refusal from me. And it's no problem. I haven't had a server grumble yet over the request.

Answer 3

Waiters work in "sections." One waiter has 5-10 tables and they are usually all in one area.

During slow times, the restaurant may only have 2 or three waiters working, so they keep people only in those areas.

Answer 4

usually the other sections are closed which means the servers that were in that section are probably off the floor. so they seat you in an open section that has a server .

Answer 5

Sometimes they do not have waiters for the other sections so they are closed. They usually try to put you in the open sections.

Answer 6

To make sure you think that the restaurant is full, even if it feels empty, they make you feel better.

Answer 7

This is a prime example of poor customer service. They are meeting the needs of the company rather than the privacy of their customer. It is easier for the waiter/waitress to walk to both tables...

Answer 8

It makes it easier for them to serve you. But I have to agree, it sometimes it is kinda annoying sometimes.

Answer 9

it makes for more efficient service if people are closer