This was our experience, too...the tables for 4 were lined up (not diagonally like those pictures are showing, but in a straight line) and there was literally 6" of space between each table for four and the next table: they barely had to move tables to make tables for 8 out of tables for 4. No private conversations, at all. Don't know when those pictures are from, but we've been twice in the last two years and neither time was there that much floor space showing, lol.
That said, we thought the squishyness was worth it...we love the mushroom filet, the cheese soup & the breadsticks there...have never had a bad meal. To OP, keep trying...and maybe go for a lunch instead? I did get a table for two on a Saturday or Sunday at less than 6 mos out - was lunch at either 1:00 or 1:30.