That's funny; not only is my mom a somewhat "meat and pototoes" person herself - although she does like a bit of seafood too - she is also a very quick eater.
I have to laugh, because a few years ago, we went to Williamsburg and she insisted on rockfish (the only seafood she will eat). They informed her the chef had to send the shipment back because it was not to his liking, but offered up another fish with the similar taste (is it Red Snapper I am thinking of?). She raved about it all night. A few years later we went out and she wanted rockfish, but it was not in season. I suggested whatever she had previously, and she looked at me, "Gosh, no, I would never order that again." Geeeeeezzzzzz. I cannot win.
Usually when we go out to eat, I am finishing up my first glass of wine and she is staring at me to get our meal ordered and into the kitchen. We get our meal and I am on my second glass of wine and leisurely eating my meal and she is done in about fifteen minutes. I am casually looking over the menu for some dessert and one more glass of wine to finish off the evening leisurely and she is holding her purse in her lap with her coat on.......Gosh and we do travel a lot. I just kinda grin and bear it. I know when I go out after work with friends or on trips by myself or with friends, I know I get to take my time.
Now, my stepmother is another one. She and I have taken a few trips and she is a very adventuresome eater, loves her wine with dinner and loves to savor the experience, just like me. But, gosh she loves eating dinner late - like 8:00 or 9:00 pm at night. I am usually in bed by 10:00, so I am laying there in pain trying to get to sleep. She is a real nightowl. Again, we find some compromise, because the experience with your mom is what is most important.