How to ask for optional service charge 12.5% to be taken off? 11 July 2012 at 2:35PM edited 30 November -1 at 12:00AM in Going Out Deals 82 replies 22.8K views

Jew

What is the best thing to say when asking to take off the optional service charge from your bill when paying by card?

What gets it done with the least confrontation and awkwardness?


I find the whole process to be very awkward. Sometimes when I've asked to remove it, I am negatively confronted and questioned by staff. I want to avoid that. I hate to ruin a good meal, but I also hate to walk away feeling ripped off by a restaurant that didn't deserve it.

:money:

richardw

Just say you are going to tip in cash.

Jew

richardw wrote: »

Just say you are going to tip in cash.

But what if the service wasn't worth tipping?

richardw

Jew wrote: »

But what if the service wasn't worth tipping?

You have a number of 5p 10p 20p 50p coins ready in change.

Jew

richardw wrote: »

You have a number of 5p 10p 20p 50p coins ready in change.

LOL!

I'm not that mean.

As I said, I want to leave the place feeling good. If the service was bad, to hell with them, not gonna let it ruin my day — what will, is an awkward confrontation and negative energy from the staff...

...I'd like to avoid that.

But 50p is a lot!
I haven't found that on the floor in ages...

richardw

If you're not getting the service you expect, some restaurants may expect you to say so when it happens.

Jew

richardw wrote: »

If you're not getting the service you expect, some restaurants may expect you to say so when it happens.

Usually, I don't think service is worth 12.5% anyway. And that's usually my concern. Especially if I order a lot/expensive things. I don't see why I should be forced to pay a percentage.

But in either case, I didn't go there to give them a free focus group. I don't want them to ask questions, and that's it.

I think it's very nosey, and annoys me further...

richardw

If you are spending a lot, perhaps negotiate a flat fixed service charge with the Maitre'D before you sit down.

PasturesNew

Vote with your feet - and don't go there again. Find somewhere that doesn't make you feel awkward... after all, being made to feel awkward or not IS part of the customer experience and therefore the customer service.

HappyMJ

I say. "Sorry, I'm eating here on business expenses and my company does not allow tips on the bill to go through on expenses and I can't afford it".

If they wanted to charge the correct rate for the food and service in the first place then they would get their money. I never tip and always take optional tips off the bill when they have been added.

Jew

Thanks guys! Good tips!

richardw wrote: »

If you are spending a lot, perhaps negotiate a flat fixed service charge with the Maitre'D before you sit down.

...and get spit in my food? :P