In a pub...
by DesertRat
In a pub (Gasthaus/Gasthof)
Here are three things to be aware of:
Toilet designators:
The number '00' on a door. This is often used in pensions, too, where the toilet is down the hall.
Damen = Women Herren = Men
Pissoir Another term often applied to the facilities, especially in Austria or Bavaria
Special Signs
Stammtisch -- If you see this word on a sign on a table, it indicates that the table is permanently reserved for the owner/publican and his own special friends. You must be invited to sit there.
Bread baskets -- Be aware that any bread brought to the table when you sit down is not free. If you eat any, you will be charged for it. When you ask for your bill, the waiter or waitress will ask you if you have had any. Usually they'll just say, 'Brot?' or maybe 'Brötchen?' with a questioning intonation.
Finding a table -- In a pub it's quite unusual to be seated by a waiter. If you look around and discover no completely free tables, feel free to ask someone who is seated alone if you can sit at his/her table. Just ask, 'Darf ich?' and point at the seat. They'll understand what you mean. Usually you will be permitted to sit down.