For generations, it’s been said that the quickest way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. I mean, think about it. Haven’t you ever been to someone’s home, sat down with them or their family, and enjoyed not only a home-cooked meal, but an engaging conversation? When you eat out somewhere, either alone or with family and friends, it’s important to find a place that fosters a homey environment, while also providing good food and service.

When I think of a homey environment, I immediately think of being at my best friends house for dinner. When I sat in her kitchen, eating alongside her family, I never felt burdened or rushed. It never felt like I was a bother when I needed to refill my drink, or wanted a napkin. When I sit inside City Tavern, I observe servers dwindling around, on phones, or chatting it up with coworkers. At Brown Dog, I see servers checking up on tables consistently, talking to customers, and productively nurturing a friendly environment.

Think about it in a behavioral sense. You are a paying customer at an establishment, you ask for something, and you’re met with a begrudging sigh, or an eye roll from your server. This response would make you feel like an inconvenience or bother to your server, when in reality their very job is to serve you. Realistically of course, no one wants to work or have to stand around taking people’s orders all day. But everyone has to work, especially nowadays and if you choose to work in a restaurant, it’s your responsibility to make customers feel welcome.

So what’s the takeaway? The finding suggest that yes, the environment of an establishment greatly effects the way that we not only act, but the way we make decisions altogether. Something as small as where you choose to eat could be the different between a fantastic meal and conversation, or rushed service and an overpriced bill.