I think you take the 'filler' scenes far too seriously. I personally find them very funny, especially the regulars who play the pompous waiters, maitre d', hairdressers, shop assistants etc, who can be pompous or just outrageously camp! They are part of the comedic charm of the Columbo series, as opposed to modern series which either take themselves too seriously, or indulge in quite awkard irony thats uncomfortable to watch.
The scenes where Columbo steps on the hem of the robes of the Arab killer, for example, or steps on the dress of the hysterical sister of the killer in the museum episode, or in the Carsini episode where the two waiters sip the port thats been ruined at the meal, or every time in cafes/restaurants Columbo gets the bill and is stunned at the expense, I find these so funny...this is why I like so many 70s shows, they have an innocence and naivite that is so comfortable and enjoyable, be it Rockford Files, Quincy, Columbo...
I'd ease up getting annoyed about the filler scenes in Columbo, frankly they break the pace up nicely, are performed by wonderful and talented actors and brighten my experience of watching Columbo (dreadful quirky Last Salute to the Commodore episode aside). Modern tv is often harsh, uncomfortable in its depth of cynicism and frequently uncomfortable to watch. Sit back and enjoy, take the 'fillers' as bonus enjoyment rather than padding scenes. Enjoy!
