There's something to be said about going to a restaurant and being welcomed as a friend.  I had been traveling for 6 weeks, and returned to Centotre for the morning event held there ever Friday (The Edinburgh Coffee Morning - EdCM) - and was welcomed by smiles, kisses, hugs and handshakes from staff and owners.  \n\nBeing recognised by staff at a restaurant is something that takes effort - the staff have to pay attention, and you can't force that.  Friendliness can't be forced either.  But it also requires something else - longevity.  Indeed, I recognise now that there isn't a big staff turnover here - they like working here. That makes the experience even more special.