Service charges in restaurants

[wanderingstray]

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.

[fireplay]

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.

[Crossy]

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.