And since they run the coffee/donut place, I’d say they know best for their own place. More activity w/anything, and a break is to be expected. Of course, being a local there somehow makes some feel like it’s their right to suggest a better way. Control.
I'm curious as to just what your point is. That no "customer" should ever engage in "shop talk" with an owner because there is no possible way that the customer cannot possibly have useful information that could benefit the owner? Is that your position?
If so that's just plain nonsense. If not...well, that's why I'm curious.