There has been some recent debate over whether or not it’s fair for bartenders to require a patron to leave a credit card in order to open a tab. The general consensus among card holders is that the practice is only carried out in order to keep people from skipping out on a tab. Therefore, if the establishment is upscale or not at all crowded, asking for a credit card upfront might be considered rude. Small pubs and very busy bars can ask for credit cards with no breach of etiquette.
Some patrons found that if they forgot to collect their credit cards before leaving, a 15-25% gratuity was added to their tab. Bar owners claim that the automatic tip charge is justified because of the inconvenience. However, this policy has to be stated in writing on the bar’s menu or posted in a visible place for patrons to see. Then, when a drink order is placed, the patron is assumed to have agreed to the policy.
The best advice for card holders who want to get their drink on is this: Don’t be offended if you’re asked to provide a credit card, and don’t forget your card when you leave. If you do go home without your card, call the pub and ask when it would be most convenient to come and retrieve it.
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