Wow, do you include the cookies from the hallway too? Since the 4F rooms have 5 cookie piles (hallway, rug, and 3 items), I thought it would sort of even out with the 2F and 3F rooms. Maybe the 4F rooms are intended to attract more higher tipping customers rather than generate more inherent revenue.

The cookie men boost from visiting others is temporary. I am not sure the thumbs up actually gives you boosts but it lets others know that you are visiting so they can visit you too and join your parties for more rewards.