I have a question for restaurant owners. What is this 10% service charge added to your bill all about. Recently in Hong Kong (but in other places like CM too) I queried my bill and said that I would not leave a tip because of the service charge. The waitress replied that the 10% goes to the owner. In another place in HK the service charge came into effect after 6pm. I thought that a waiter/ress' job description was to give service to their customers'. Isn't that what they are paid for ? Does it also mean that you get better service after 6pm ? Why not just add 10% to the menu prices ? The other question is, can you legally refuse to pay it when the bill arrives ? Intelligent answers would be appreciated. I know I have a choice of not frequenting these establishments but sometime I look at what is on offer and don't read the 7 point small print.

The service charge is used for the staff...a group tip to be divided monthly...also any damages...such as corked wine or food sent back...will be deducted from the service charge.

There is already a long thread on service charges running in General

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/881891-service-charge-on-beer-and-food/

Let's continue there.

Closed.