Lingering a bit is OK; in Europe, it's a different culture and bringing the bill whilst one is eating is very disrespectful and customer-unfriendly.

But lingering THREE HOURS? If others are waiting?

I'm being egocentric, disrespectful and hoggish.

I'm depriving the restaurateur of income.

I'm depriving the server of income - usually a person earning sub-minimum eage and reliant on tips. (Fortunately, in Europe servers are seen as professionals engaged in a career and as in Australia and others, paid a decent wage whether tables are turning over or not).

If I arrive not long before closing or stay past, I am imposing on other people's lives; if I'm so sure mine is more worthwhile, see number one.

If I'm going to linger and there's no one waiting, that's different - though asking the manager or ? if it's OK is courteous.

The one I'm seeing with increasing frequency today is the officeless micro-entrepreneur who takes a table, may or may not buy a beverage, spread out papers and gear, meet with others, make lengthy phone calls, sponge free electric power and WiFi and generally parasitize a business hours on end.