What more do you expect?

i agree with you

I would expect my server in any sit down restaurant to be friendly and happy. Maybe explain what the restaurant is all about, some sort of nice introduction. I like to feel important. I also like when the server is very knowledgeable about the food and food processes. Like you I also prefer that the server have fun rather than be dull and robotic. I like to see the personalities of each person. A fine dining experience is a complete package good food good time, good service, If the service is bad it could turn a good meal bad.

I don't expect a waiter or waitress to stand close by my table. The things I expect to be waited on within a reasonable amount of time. If I am not ready to order yet than give me a few minutes to choose what I want to order. When you come to take my order pour me coffee and make sure I have water there to drink. After leaving I don't expect to wait forever for the person to come back (this has happened to me before). I don't expect the person who is waiting on me to be making jokes unless they want to. Conversation I can take or leave with them. If they want to talk than I will talk if not then I won't. After they take my order I expect to be served in a reasonable amount of time. After I get my order I do expect them to come back and see that the coffee cup is filled and if I need anything else. I pay tips according to the service I get. The price has nothing to do with it with me.