Can they charge me for the shed? Can I request free water? And other questions you might have when you go to restaurants

What rights and responsibilities do we have when we go to a restaurant? The pandemic has made it clear that the customer isn't always right. And indeed, that's the case. Just like in any neighborhood, there are some difficult customers. There are also restaurant owners who cheat. So there are some common rules of the gameThe problem is that not everyone is aware of them. So, let's review the most common questions any of us might have.

We're opening a can of worms: living in Catalan in Catalonia. It's the most frequently asked question, and that's understandable, given the alarming statistics. According to the Barcelona City Council, Half of the restaurant workers do not speak Catalan In Barcelona establishments (47.6%), one in four bar and restaurant staff don't understand you. What are our rights? According to the Catalan Consumer Agency, we have the right to be served in the language of our choice, whether Catalan or Spanish. However, staff can also respond in either of these two official languages ​​of Catalonia. In short, you can speak in Catalan, they must understand you, and they can answer in either Catalan or Spanish. Menus and signage must also be in Catalan.

And speaking of menus, allergens must be identified, and if the restaurant uses impersonal QR codes, they must be aware that they are obligated to have a physical copy and provide it upon request. Not everyone has a phone or knows how to use one. It's best not to widen the technological gap any further. Furthermore, prices on the menu must include VAT. This is important because in countries where this isn't the case, surprises often follow. And speaking of surprises, if there are off-menu items and you mention them verbally, you must state the price. More and more establishments are diligently complying with this regulation.

Tips and card reservations

When the bill arrives, always check it carefully. If anything is incorrect, point it out. It's also important to be honest and let them know if anything is missing. If you order a set menu and decline one of the dishes, for example, dessert or coffee, the restaurant won't deduct the cost; you must pay the full amount. If you'd like tap water, it should be offered free of charge. While it's true that this isn't customary in our country, as it is in Anglo-Saxon countries, for example, remember that tipping here is entirely voluntary and cannot be imposed. Those of us who often round up the total on the card reader as a tip will find that many places don't accept it. It's a complex accounting issue. If the bill includes the term "cover charge," be aware that it's not allowed. Alternatives like "bread service" are acceptable. Extras, such as drinks on the terrace, ice for coffee, or plant-based drinks, are also acceptable. However, these additional charges must be clearly stated on the menu, and you should be aware of them beforehand.

If we're talking about booking in advance, it's time to discuss reservations. The issue of leaving a credit card for a reservation has been controversial. But it's a clear case of the innocent suffering for the guilty. Although it surprises many of us, there are people who reserve a table, don't show up, don't notify the restaurant, and do everything to avoid paying the penalty. In a small restaurant, if they don't get two tables filled, they're left with no margin for error. The regulations state that the conditions must be clear and not abusive. If you can no longer cancel the reservation and can't go, I always recommend calling as soon as you know and trying to explain the situation. Not always, but often, restaurants don't apply the penalty if there's a justified reason and they're dealing with people, not inconsiderate individuals lacking empathy.

By the way, many restaurants have set seating times. These should be clearly explained. Just as diners have an obligation to be punctual, restaurants have an obligation to serve food promptly. And if things go wrong for any reason, remember that there are always mechanisms to resolve any situation. In case of conflict, ask for the complaints book. Or, if you prefer, you can file a complaint online through the Catalan Consumer Agency's website.