Monday, June 19, 2006
Bills and boxes
I've noted quite a few things in this blog that confuse, annoy or amuse me about the unique way of America. But here's two things from eating out here that the UK could learn from.
SPLITTING THE BILL
Restaurants are more than happy to split the bill between people at a meal. So none of that deciding who's going to put it on their credit card, or having to carry enough cash to chip in for your bit of the total. Split bills are the way forward. Except for dates, obviously.
THE TAKE-OUT BOX
Can't eat all your meal? Not surprising based on the mountain-sized portions here. However, places are delighted to give you a take-out box so you can take the rest of your meal away with you for future consumption. In fact, they're almost offended if you don't want to. After all, if you've enjoyed this lovely meal they've cooked for you, why wouldn't you want to take the rest away with you? It makes complete sense.
THE TIP
Tipping is now something that is natural to me. 15% minimum, up to 20% for really good service. I'm used to it. However, through my own confusion, I tipped far too less at a meal I had earlier, which I'm now feeling rather guilty about.
UK restaurants... learn from the above... apart from the 15% tip bit!
SPLITTING THE BILL
Restaurants are more than happy to split the bill between people at a meal. So none of that deciding who's going to put it on their credit card, or having to carry enough cash to chip in for your bit of the total. Split bills are the way forward. Except for dates, obviously.
THE TAKE-OUT BOX
Can't eat all your meal? Not surprising based on the mountain-sized portions here. However, places are delighted to give you a take-out box so you can take the rest of your meal away with you for future consumption. In fact, they're almost offended if you don't want to. After all, if you've enjoyed this lovely meal they've cooked for you, why wouldn't you want to take the rest away with you? It makes complete sense.
THE TIP
Tipping is now something that is natural to me. 15% minimum, up to 20% for really good service. I'm used to it. However, through my own confusion, I tipped far too less at a meal I had earlier, which I'm now feeling rather guilty about.
UK restaurants... learn from the above... apart from the 15% tip bit!
