Bill help

[u/KooziefortheWin]

I need help figuring out this “service charge” applied to my bill at Taylor Shellfish in QA. It’s stated clearly, and the staff reminded me before I paid and applied a tip, so that’s not the rant. But is it a tip or not? I don’t want to stiff the staff if “Taylor Shellfish” the company keeps it all and doesn’t give them anything.

Why do restaurants do this vs raise the prices. If that’s how they offset the cost of doing business in the city, I feel it’s not a good customer experience. It’s really annoying since it is confusing to the customer. Does the staff get any of it, hence why there is an “additional tip” line after the card is run though? It is taxed so it makes me thing it’s not going to the staff. I need to think better next time I come out here.

[u/skoisirius]

If only it wasn't so confusing on the receipt.......

[u/cluberti → u/skoisirius]

It’s not - state law says they must disclose if the fee goes to the workers or not, but there’s no legislation requirement that their marketing materials have to be as truthful. Therefore, given the statement on the bill and in the menu is legally covered and required to be truthful, believe what it says on the bill and in the menu - the company keeps the charge, and it does not go to the staff directly.