Originally Posted by
Taiwaned
I prefer it this way, then the food is eaten hot instead of "warming" under some lamp in the kitchen so everybody can eat the meal at the same time.
at a well run restaurant any "warming" time is a minimal effect. At a Denny's or iHop, sure quite a bit.
Given the OP's statement of 6-8 people, I would say at a "traditional western" style restaurant, it is very important for everyone's food to arrive at the same time, especially in a business setting. Variance should be minimal, maybe a minute or two, tops.
If with an informal group of friends at a more ethnic type eatery (where amongst my friends & family it is expected you will share your meal (and we like it that way)) bringing the dishes out as they are ready is fine.