My mother does that too, I always giggle a bit. I will, however, ask the server for advice between two entrees or something like that. Like "I can't decide between the X and the Y, which do you think is the way to go here?" Or similar. Sometimes it's not that helpful, like if they give you what is clearly just a personal taste preference, but sometimes they'll say "Oh, the X is really good here, people always comment about it."
It can also be helpful to just ask what the server considers their signature dish or best thing on the menu. If you're not too picky and want what they do best.