A well-known London restaurant has come under fire after diners discovered a 15% 'sneaky' service charge added to their bills without prior warning. The unexpected fee has sparked fury among customers, who accuse the establishment of deceptive pricing practices.
The controversy erupted when several patrons took to social media to share their experiences, with many claiming they only noticed the additional charge after receiving their final bill. One frustrated customer wrote: "We were shocked to see an extra 15% added when we'd already tipped generously. This isn't transparency - it's trickery."
Customers Feel Deceived
Many diners reported feeling misled, as the restaurant's menu made no mention of the mandatory service charge. While service fees have become increasingly common in UK restaurants, industry guidelines typically recommend clear disclosure before ordering.
Food critic James Harrington commented: "This isn't just about the money - it's about trust. When establishments spring hidden charges on customers, it damages the entire hospitality sector's reputation."
Industry Standards Under Scrutiny
The incident has reignited debate about transparency in restaurant pricing. Current UK law requires businesses to display all mandatory charges, but enforcement can be inconsistent.
- 15% service fee added without warning
- No mention on menu or by staff
- Customers only noticed on final bill
- Social media backlash grows
A spokesperson for the restaurant initially defended the practice, stating it was "standard across the industry", but later announced they would review their pricing policy following the outcry.
Consumer rights groups are urging diners to carefully check their bills and challenge any unexpected charges. As one regular customer put it: "I don't mind paying for good service - I just want to know what I'm paying for upfront."
