They're designed so that, if necessary, they can be operated by a single employee. That's why they're so tightly cramped around the grill: so that someone can cook and still keep an eye on a table.
This is also what makes it really easy to get attached to your local Waffle House: the staff make the place what it is.
This is also what makes it really easy to get attached to your local Waffle House: the staff make the place what it is.