When we were there a few weeks back we saw some very official gentlemen walking up and down the prom. I was told they were checking that every table had a 'tab' on it - otherwise the owner would be find for tax evasion.
Seems they don't take kindly to friendly banter in Turkey. Rushie is a great guy who, charmingly, bores you to death. Also George from Serkul 1 manages to bring up his hair transplant every time we see him (he's had 2 now). I think he must be on commission from the surgeon.
Shame but I must admit on occasions we just want to walk along the prom without getting asked to sit down every 5 yards.