Going out for dinner with a group – whether it’s friends, family or work colleagues – can be a great way to bond. But with so many factors affecting the group dynamic – from allergies and dietary requirements to budgets – the experience can quickly get uncomfortable when the time comes to pay the bill. Do you split it evenly between every diner or itemise? Who will cover the tip? How do you avoid a fallout? Here are our tips for splitting the bill so that no-one feels scorned or overcharged.
Splitting evenly
With the cost of living at a high and many people’s budgets stretched, suggesting an even split between all diners is only really going to work if you all choose from a preset menu or ate dishes of a similar price. More often than not it can at best cause mild tension and at worst an argument and a bitter taste left in everyone’s mouths.
Itemised bills
Asking for an itemised bill is going to ensure everyone in the group pays for what they had, but can mean a lot of debate and going round in circles to ensure the maths is correct. Then the server has to divide up the bill and deal with multiple credit cards and/or cash payments. And who covers the tip? While this option is less likely to leave anyone annoyed, it can still create something of a debacle.
Separate tabs
You’ve taken your friend out to one of your favourite Wembley eating places and you want to ensure everyone has a good time. But how can you avoid anxiety when the bill arrives? Before a single item has been ordered, try asking the server to create separate tabs for everyone. That way each person can eat and drink what they like without any potential impact on the other diners. You’ll each get a bill at the end and it’s much easier for both you and your server.
One pays all
An option that will only work with those you trust – certain family members and close friends for example – is one person picking up the tab at the restaurant and the others paying them back. This can make things much simpler at the point of payment, and with an itemised bill they can then work out what everyone owes and collect the money later.
QR ordering
In some venues, the debate over splitting the bill is safely circumvented with QR code ordering. Every diner can pull up a menu on their phone, order what they want and pay for it there and then, meaning once your meal is over you can all leave knowing you’ve remained within budget and catered to your own requirements.
Stress-free dining in Wembley
If you enjoy live music and food or you’re looking for pre-theatre dining, why not eat with us at Studio Five? Our pre and post show menu offers two courses for £35 or three courses for £38, meaning your group can dine as they choose for a fixed price, and splitting the bill is simple. We also have live band and food evenings, enabling guests to discover the hottest local talent while enjoying delicious cuisine. Book your table today.
