Oh that's a pet peeve of mine but I'm probably more sensitive about it at a higher priced place than a chain-type restaurant. Maybe it's because I've been on the food service end of things.
Like other posters here I've asked for my course to be held until I am ready for it. "Gee, I'd hate to send this back later because it's cold, since I'd like to finish my salad or appetizer. Can you hold this for a moment in the kitchen 'til we're ready?" It works 99% of the time. At the time it doesn't work I also adjust my tip accordingly and have accepted the food, then sent it back to have it warmed (but that was just once... the waitress was beyond rude about that one. We never returned to that restaurant and I left one penny on the table for her tip.)
In a nutshell - I don't like being rushed because it's seldom that we get to go out and I'm there for a good time. My drink glass had better stay full, too or not be empty for a long time.
