Keep on asking around, thats really all you can do! I find small businesses are less targetted by big companies, and businessed that have recently changed hands. If you can get in before anyone else and keep a good relationship then your in with a chance.
As for approach, be yourself, explain what your doing with it, and do it after you'ce just spent money at their establishment. Continue to do so and compliment the meal so that they see your gratitude.
Never heard of people being fined...