I'm the one in the restaurant who asks for things on the side. I plead my cause to get them to leave off this and substitute that. Pleaaaaaase don't plop my fried chicken on top of my mashed potatoes, thank you very much. My husband sometimes shakes his head and blinks his eyes wildly like a nervous tic when I do that, to make a point. Other of my friends revere my boldness in getting things how I like them. I realize that this gives the server more to think about; however fortunately in upscale restaurants in Marin County, where I live, it seems to be easier and easier to do this without repercussions. And I tip well. Generally speaking, servers have been very accommodating. I rarely am disappointed in my food when I eat out, as I research in advance what to order where. Yelp.com is my holy grail. Stand up for yourself. It'll feel good. If you hate cumin, shout it from the rooftops. Oh, and in case you are interested the egg photo is they way my mister eats. He likes it how he likes it too.
