Phat Tips: double-check your Restaurant Check [Travel]

After dinning in a restaurant, double-check your “Restaurant Check,” or the total bill.

Restaurant owners who prey on tourists will often miscalculate the bill in their favor.  My friends and I have experienced this scam.  The total bill has items that weren’t ordered or prices that are different from the menu.  And, because the items and the bill are in local currency, the restaurant owners hope that you might not notice the difference in the amount.  And, when confronted with the mistake, restaurant owners are often quick to correct the problem and very apologetic.  So, one might not be able to distinguish between a genuine honest mistake and a scam.  Regardless, be on your guard.

Recommended Solution:  Keep track of the items, dishes and drinks, you ordered and always keep a running total in your head.  You should have an estimate of your total bill at the end of your meal.  And, always question any charges that you don’t understand.