Unless I'm missing something, if I can't write off office space, mileage, business meals, etc. then I'm losing a lot of revenue with no tax benefit. 

If not then it is very telling they are looking for a sucker.They are looking for someone to give them stuff piece meal and drop the really bad stuff they are hiding at the end when the buyer has spent lot's of money and time trying to make a deal work.

If you have a buffet of service fees then the cost of getting into that line should be less than the full meal to begin with.

It is my understanding that meals and incidental expenses are for unreimbursed business expenses incurred during travel away from home.

However, the manager at the restaurant didn't know that and apparently allowed the couple and their snake to stay and complete their meal.

There is huge ability to piece meal self management these days. 

No liability, but you can expect people will eat the pizza and not pay.A lot of hosts will leave some spaghetti noodles and a can of sauce for a quick meal, only costs a few bucks.

We go above-and-beyond by leaving a box of noodles and some canned spaghetti sauce for a quick meal, some chocolates on the counter, etc.

You will learn a lot and have a nice meal lol.

Hoping to offer coffee/a meal in exchange for an informal interview about their experience.