Is that just "design" of the culture though? If you're working 20% less of the time you've more time to relax; perhaps then you don't need to stress if you've a little more time to chat before your strudel arrives.

Personally I hate it when you've only just sat down and the waiter is asking what you want, especially if it's a big menu and you've arrived at a meal time.

And I hate when you have to wait 20 min for the "garcon de cafee" to even notice you have finished and want the bill.

Right, you can tell an early waiter you need a couple more minutes, but you can't (easily) tell a late waiter to come early.

What's even more annoying than them not coming on their own is that they actively try to avoid eye contact.