Server-Less

We have been keeping a little list of "things that are different in Australia" and without thinking it through rigorously, I think the single best thing might be:

Server-less ordering and paying.

About half of restaurants have QR code menus, from which one orders and pays in advance. The only time you see a server is when they drop the order off. No tips. Generally, no waiting. This system has the small drawback of sometimes making you wait in a line, but it's a small hassle compared to waiting for the server all the time.

The other half have a system where you go up to the bar and order your own; for drinks, you carry them back to your table; for food, they bring it when it's ready. Also no tips. Waiting, but only for the actual food preparation step.

Four HUGE thumbs up for this system!

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On the other hand, a surprising thing about pubs in Australia: often, not always, utterly charmless. They often look like someone rented a storefront, put down the cheapest possible carpet, bought the cheapest possible tables and chairs from Walmart, and started serving.

By contrast, in Canada, I can't immediately think of a pub where the owners haven't gone to some lengths to create a warm atmosphere, with things like fireplaces and crown moulding and nice carpet.

Same thing, by the way, for beer and wine stores. Canada's almost always seem to be a lot nicer than they need to be, in my experience. But in this case, Australia's are fine.