Do you have any work exp at this point? Or would this be your first job? Ive had a shit ton of jobs and never had a problem getting them. What always worked for me was telling them what they wanted to hear. What kind of person do they want to hire? Someone who is great with people and kids? Can handle upsetting situations where a customer may be mad? How would you work with other people? As a team?

Most companies look for these types of qualities.
*Attendance - Will there be a problem?
*Customer Service - Customer is ALWAYS right in their eyes. Thats how they make business.
*Team Players - They dont want drama. simply put. How well would you handle a situation if another employee fucks up for you?
*Honesty - They dont want theives.
*Availability - How well can you flex your time for them...Not the other way around. If you cant work their schedule, then they will find someone that will. ( Most companies do understand situations and will work around them, let them know up front tho. )
*Ability to Move up. - How long will you work for us. I usually say something like, Im not looking for another job, but a career. I want advancement. That shows them your motivated.
(JCPenny Founder once said: "Give me a stock clerk with a goal and ill give you a man that will make history, give me a man with no goals and ill give you a stock clerk")

With that being said would you mind working as a cook, or dishwasher, host if available? I would, but id let me know up front where id like to be.
Work your way there if nothing else. Ask questions about how to do stuff. Most will teach you. Then badda-bing! Theres a call off and no other waiters want to come in?! Manager thinks theres johnnie he knows how to work orders, computer, make drinks. Next thing you know they are asking you to cover. Then fill in some shifts, then be full time waiter.