Make sure people have something to eat or sip the minute they sit down. They'll take more time ordering, and they'll be willing to wait longer for the arrival of that first dish. Don't abandon the patrons. Work with them. If they ask for the wine list, check back with them.
Chances are they want to order some wine.
If the kitchen is running behind, come out and tell the patron. Then appear to disappear. Never argue with them. If they don't want to finish that prawn salad, they don't have to. You don't need to know why they didn't finish it, simply offer to wrap it so they can take it home.