Yup - especially at a new restaurant, I'll do what Analise does, and scope out the items served while I walk to my table. This gives me ideas on what the salads look like, portion sizes, how much is fried, garnished, etc. This helps me make choices. For instance, I like lightly breaded and fried stuff, so if something is thickly breaded I'll avoid it - that description is not always apparent in the menu. I like large salads but am picky about the types of greens (prefer romaine lettuce). I like my fish without rice underneath (low carb) etc. There are a couple places where I've ordered a meal seemingly without rice but it came with rice despite no mention of it on the menu. It's not always easy to eat around it, if it's mixed into the rest.

Important reconnaissance information!

I don't wander around the tables after I've eaten, though. Occasionally I take a trip to the restroom, if needed