Brits heading abroad to Spain beware - there are several items and services the country’s restaurants and bistros cannot legally charge for.
Customers are protected by the Organisation of Consumers and Users, which has urged visitors to be aware of their rights before travelling.
Certain items, such as bread and olives, usually have to be complimentary so be sure to check the rules before checking passports to ensure no one is ripped off on holiday, reports the Daily Record.
The advice comes after customers visiting the Imperial Bar in Benavente claim they were charged for every time a waiter came to their table - something the owner claimed was “commonplace” in the region.
He said in response to online criticism: “The waiter charges for each service. Every time a drink is served to you on the terrace, it carries a surcharge of 20x perhaps it is easier to put a full price, but we believe that it is better you know what you pay and, we feel this is your appreciation.”
Here are some more examples of crucial information to know before your next getaway.
Appetisers and bread
The Spanish consumer rights organisation explained some charges require the direct consent of the client, such as appetisers like olives, crisps, or bread.
This is a very common practice in Spain, where holidaymakers are often served bread or olives with their drinks while they wait for the food, but sometimes they find the extra charge added to the bill.
The appetiser can be charged but only if it has been requested and its price is indicated.
Sitting outside
Some restaurants charge a small supplement, often around one euro to two euros, to use the terrace.
According to the Organisation of Consumers and Users, supplements cannot be charged in bars and restaurants for terrace service, unless it is clearly indicated on the menu.
Restaurants can set a minimum consumption or a maximum time on the terrace, but customers have to be correctly informed first.
Water
Restaurants cannot charge or refuse to give people free tap water, even if they think it doesn't taste good.
Service charge
Bars and restaurants in Spain are not allowed to charge for table service or cutlery unless it is specified in the menu and customers are not required to leave a tip if they don't wish to do so.
Fish and seafood
The fish, meat and seafood priced on the menu according to the market must always include a price per kg.
This is to allow customers to know the approximate final price.
Items off the menu
If a product is offered off the menu, its price must be informed, otherwise, the customers should pay the price of a similar dish on the menu. The prices on the menu should be final, with VAT included. If it is not included, it must be indicated.
The establishment must provide bags and boxes to the customers if they wish to take the rest of the food with them.
However, they can charge for these as long as it is informed.
In case an advance payment is requested when holidaymakers book a table, that amount must be deducted from the final bill.
