How long should you spend at each group/table?

How many routines?

Should I perform different stuff from table to table or do the same routines at each table?

A few more questions:

How will I know when I'm ready to work tables?

Should I take a close-up pad/mat from table to table, buy a rolling table or neither?

Do people actually tip magicians working tables? How much?

What type of restaurant is good to table hop at?

I suggest you get Kirk Charles(?) or Jim Pace's restaurant magic books. They'll give you all the info you need. It all depends on the audience, their reactions, the length and type of routines you're doing, etc etc.

I spend 2-5 minutes strolling (bar/waiting line), 7-12 minutes for a seated group. That could be 3 effects or 6, depending. Definitely have several routines available. What happens when you get a lukewarm reaction to a routine.. you want to switch it up! Also, people watch from other tables, so they'll notice if you do the exact same effects. Theme your routines so they open and close nicely, but be able to switch in a different effect at any time if something happens. Good luck!

On average 5-7 minutes will do fine, that's about two maybe three routines, and try to cary it just incase you ave the next table looking over your shoulder. If you should decide to do the same stuff then skip tables.

Listen to Magic Sam. He's dead center on the right path. Considering all the variables, never forget the old adage, "Always leave 'em wanting more." The cutoff point will always be different if you remember that saying and learn to read the situation at hand.

~michael

Thank-you!

Magic Sam-
Where can I buy those books?

Michael-
I'll remember that.