Just had our first meal in London and had a bit of a confrontation with the waitress regarding this. I've tried to readup on the matter but I wasn't expecting a lecture from a waitress claiming that her till would be down.
What do you do when in London?
It is indeed 'optional' but some like to think it's a given that you will pay it and/or avoid any confrontation to have it removed.
Once, many years ago my team of 12 all went to Pizza Express in London for a social lunch. The service was so bad I calculated the amount everyone should contribute less the service charge. The staff were all up in arms about it but as I reminded them, it was 'optional' and not an entitlement. I explained all the reasons why there weren't getting anything above the bill. Needless to say they weren't happy.
Thanks, so it may be better to pay it in future?
a lecture from a waitress claiming that her till would be down.
lol, well then the till is going to be down then, isn't it
Not if she removed the charge and accepted the change as a cash tip (we did pay in cash)
Has the meaning of the word 'optional' changed in England?
Or perhaps they just don't understand english.
Judging by the accent she had there may have been a loss in translation
If you want a laugh tell the F&C shop staff in the UK about flake and watch their reaction.
Yes, flake…not bad eating either
It depends on which version of 'Flake' you're talking about. Swordfish and shark are both sold as flake.
Having lived there, I wouldn't have paid the service charge at a fish and chip restaurant. Just pay cash and leave. Generally, if you are at a restaurant where they give you "free" bread with your meal, it's a sign that service charge ought to be paid. Don't fall for the water with your meal trap in restaurants either, unless you specify tap water, they will bring you a very expensive bottle of water! Pubs are always the best value places to eat and many of the pub chains have special deals according to the night of the week. Pubs don't normally add service charge.
Thanks for the tips, I'll keep those in mind whilst Im out and about
Tipping/Service Charge is optional, check what it says on the menu prior to placing your order, if you feel the service warrants it pay if not don't.
Unlike America, the UK has a minimum wage for staff and that is paid by the employees and tips are the extras and are not counted into the remuneration packages. Waitresses/waiters are taxed on what they are tipped and it should be declared - However the majority of staff do not declare it!
So as far as I am concerned, the service has to be outstanding before I will pay the charge.
Ps Before you ask I was a pommel!!
And now you've progressed to being the hilt?
I should also make it clear it was a fish and chips shop, nothing flash and the bill was under 30£