Check, please! The etiquette of splitting the tab

[Buttoneer]

Heard this the other day and thought it was pretty interesting.
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/02/1196979691/splitting-the-tab

Takeaway one - if you're planning on splitting the bill with a group, talk about how you're going to do that before you order. That way, there are no surprises at the end of the meal.

Takeaway two - be sensitive to the people in your party who didn't order as much as everyone else. And if you feel like you're stuck with an unfair tab, speak up.

Takeaway three - be considerate of your server. If it's a busy night, don't make them fiddle around with 10 credit cards. And whatever you do, do not stiff the server of their tip.

Takeaway four - when all else fails, put down one card and have everyone Venmo you. It's easy for everyone and great for that person in your group who's obsessed with racking up credit card points.

And takeaway five - arguing over the check is a great American pastime. It's an honor to be able to say, especially among good friends, this is on me tonight.

[no_hypocrisy]

1. Long ago, on Martha's Vinyard, there was a small breakfast cafe.

James Cagney frequented it.

The custom on The Island was when you arrived and someone (like Cagney) was finishing up, he paid for his meal -- and yours. So when you went to pay, the cashier would tell you it was already taken care of. And vice versa; you'd pay for someone else's meal when you were leaving.

Got this anecdote from a dear friend who personally experienced this neighborly largess.

[ret5hd]

2. you didn't mention the...

“…excuse me i need to go to the restroom…” ploy that always seems to be successful for me. just remember, timing is everything…wait till almost everyone has finished and you see the waiter walking towards the table.

[Buttoneer]

3. lol! Eventually you'll get a reputation. "Bathroom Bob"... :P

[ret5hd]

4. Another win!!!