let’s normalize calling ahead or checking for add-on charges before going to a restaurant, or before being seated. then go somewhere else.

The problem with these service charges and such is that by the time you’ve already planned to meet someone and gone there, it’s a little too late to just try to go somewhere else, and there’s always going to be those people who say, just don’t worry about it. We’re already here. And that’s fine. But I think I’ll start calling ahead and asking before even planning on going to a restaurant, and then making my decision based on that, and letting them know as well.

Also, I’m going to start asking up front before I get seated or order food. I might choose to go somewhere else or I might not. But at least I know what to expect before the bill comes. A little sign by the register or a note on the menu doesn’t take the place of my due diligence I guess. Although I think people should have the right to refuse any service charge no matter what, unless the wait person specifically stated it before ordering or before being seated.

If enough people did that and let the owners know how they feel about it, perhaps it would put an end to this nonsense.