Paying the bill at a restaurant can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re not familiar with the proper etiquette. With some simple preparation and knowledge of the process, you can pay your restaurant bill smoothly and avoid looking like a fool. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of paying the bill, from reviewing it to leaving the tip
When You’ll Get The Bill
The first step is knowing when to expect the bill In most restaurants, the server will bring the check after you have finished your meal However, at high-end establishments, the server may present the bill in a folder when entrees are served. This allows you to settle the bill at your leisure instead of waiting until the end.
If you need the check right away don’t be afraid to politely ask your server for it. Just say “Could we please get the check when you get a chance?” That way the staff knows you are ready to pay and will deliver the bill promptly.
Reviewing The Bill
When the check arrives, look over it carefully to ensure there are no errors. Verify that you were only charged for items you ordered and the prices listed match the menu. Also check for double charges, as servers can accidentally enter orders twice in their system.
If something looks incorrect, politely point it out to the server right away. Just say “I don’t believe I ordered the X dish, could you please double check this for me?” Servers handle multiple tables and mistakes do happen, so don’t make accusations. Simply ask them to review it and make any necessary adjustments.
How To Pay
Once the bill is correct, it’s time to figure out payment. There are several options:
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Cash: Count out the payment amount plus tip and place it in the bill folder or hand it directly to the server. Make sure you get any change back.
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Credit card: Insert the card into the folder or hand it to the server. They will take it to process payment and return with a receipt for you to sign. Be sure to get the card back!
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Gift card: Follow the same protocol as a credit card. The balance will be applied to the bill and any remaining amount will stay on the gift card.
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Digital wallet: Open the app and click the “pay” button when prompted on your phone. Complete any authorization steps then show the server the confirmation screen.
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Splitting payment: Tell the server upfront so separate checks can be generated. If paying together, determine who owes what and have people pay individually.
No matter the method, speak up if you need change for tipping or have payment questions. Servers are used to dividing bills and want to ensure the process goes smoothly.
The Dos And Don’ts Of Tipping
Once payment is taken care of, it’s time to tip. Most servers make $2-3 an hour and rely on tips for their income. The standard is 15-20% of the pretax bill. A quick trick is to double the tax as a starting point. Then adjust up or down based on service.
Some other tipping guidelines:
DO:
- Tip on the full amount, even if you used a discount or coupon
- Tip in cash so the server gets it right away
- Include the tip if paying by card to avoid math errors
DON’T:
- Argue with others at the table about the tip amount
- Make a server split a large tip between staff
- Skip tipping because of issues with the kitchen or management
The server directly served your table, so base the tip on their individual effort and service quality.
Settling Up And Leaving
Once payment and tip is complete, you are free to go. Here are some final pointers for a smooth exit:
- Double check you received your credit card and receipt back
- Make sure you didn’t leave personal items like coats behind
- Thank your server on the way out
By following this process, you now know how to properly pay a restaurant bill. No more awkward confusion trying to flag down the server or fumbling with the folder. Just relax, review the steps above, and you can handle the check process like a pro!
A stable internet or Bluetooth connection
In order to use wireless payment terminals properly, your restaurant must have a strong internet connection. Anything patchy or slow will make it difficult for transactions to process efficiently. Although some POS systems have offline capabilities, it’s best not to solely rely on that.
Keep in mind that WiFi is typically a better option for large businesses. It’s more reliable and allows for better access across larger areas than Bluetooth, which operates at a limited distance.
Train and explain
Speaking of support, it’s important to train your employees thoroughly on the ins and outs of the new system you’re implementing. That way, they can explain to inquiring customers why the business shifted to pay-at-the-table technology—security being the number one answer.
Did you know? Lightspeed POS and Payments comes with up to 24/7 support, onboarding assistance from our restaurant experts, and an account manager to help grow your business.
How to Pay at a Restaurant with a Card
FAQ
What is the process of paying at a restaurant?
How does paying with a card at a restaurant work?
How to pay for someone’s restaurant bill?
How do you pay a restaurant bill?
Depending on the restaurant, you may hand the bill to the waiter, or you might take it up to a cash register to pay in person. Your server will be able to tell you how this works. Either way, the person responsible will take your credit card, ring up your charges and present you with a printed receipt.
Can you pay a restaurant bill with a credit card?
You may worry about your card’s security as it’s taken away to be charged, how to calculate a tip or when you’ll see the charge on your bill. Luckily, restaurants are some of the most common places credit cards are used, and it’s become an incredibly smooth process. Paying a restaurant bill with a credit card is very straightforward.
Can you pay a restaurant bill with cash?
Remember, paying with cash can be a convenient and straightforward way to settle your bill at a restaurant. By informing your server in advance and having the cash ready when your bill arrives, you’ll ensure a smooth and efficient payment process. When it comes to paying the bill at a restaurant, there are a few important steps to follow.
Should you pay your bill at the end of a restaurant meal?
For most diners, paying one’s bill at the finish of a restaurant meal is a simple, uncomplicated process, a no-brainer. Or should be. It never fails to amaze me how many people screw this up. The ideal execution of bill getting-and-paying should be a near-non-event.
How do you pay a restaurant with cash?
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer to paying with cash at restaurants: When you’re ready to pay, let your server know you’ll be paying cash. Have your payment ready when the check is dropped off, and make sure to leave the proper tip amount in cash as well. Hand your payment to your server, and they’ll return any change due.
Why should you pay a bill at a restaurant?
Paying the bill at a restaurant is symbolic of so much more than money. In Chinese culture, paying for something communicates respect, gratitude and kindness, and illustrates how much you value your relationship with a person. Food is also an incredibly important part of sharing love and life with your friends and family.