> Why would a barista (/waitress/waiter/any other serving staff) be interested in you? This is part of it for me. It seems so arrogant and intrusive. Asking fo

> Why would a barista (/waitress/waiter/any other serving staff) be interested in you? This is part of it for me. It seems so arrogant and intrusive. Asking for a food recommendation (or whatever) at the place you're at, fine. Even asking a local for other suggestions in the area (restaurant, club, sights, etc.) is okay if you keep it simple. Asking where they're from and why they're there? None of your business. You can be polite, even friendly, without all the questions and blah blah blah.