It's super-simple, people. Understand that by being that person with the laptop taking up table real estate you're consuming a resource that the proprietor uses

It's super-simple, people. Understand that by being that person with the laptop taking up table real estate you're consuming a resource that the proprietor uses to generate revenue. Customers who might otherwise come in, sit down and make a purchase will keep walking if there are no tables available. Put another way - it's like that one client who paid you $50 to install a WordPress plugin 6 months ago who calls you weekly to troubleshoot their printer problems. There's a very simple thing you can do which will keep any cafe owner happy. Every 25-30 minutes, have a glance around and check for vacant tables. If there are fewer than two tables available (or maybe one in smaller cafes) it's time to move on. The only exception being if you have just sat down, in which case, finish your food and beverage and leave.