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> ... now have to make choices in a place where they used to be fine ...

That seems to be the customer's problem though, not the business owner. The cafe owner has no obligation to stick to the old way of doing things forever. Companies change all the time and if customers aren't happy about it they should move on to other options.

Sure, just like I (or actually TFA's author; I really don't care that much) can scoff at these businesses, and be annoyed if more and more places become like that.

Are people afraid to ask for a recommendation?

Ironically, that’s exactly how I feel going to a pub. I don’t really care for beer so anything works for me but I’m often expected to choose from many.

one alcohol, please

One shot of Everclear coming right up!

> a refreshment, please

> food or drink?

> why do I need to specify. I've been out all day in the heat. Bring me a few refreshments.

One shot of Smirnoff Red Label vodka (or UA/EU equivalent), as we don't have Everclear here.