Can Restaurants Charge For Water: What About Free Tap Water?

Ever been happily munching away on your favorite meal at a restaurant, only to raise your eyebrows at a surprise guest on the bill?

I’m talking about water – good old tap water! You may have wondered, just like I did, can restaurants charge for water?

In most restaurants in the US, you will get a complimentary glass of water, however, if you are in a more “sophisticated” restaurant, you may find that they will charge a small fee for water.

As an ex-chef who has worked in the industry and as a diner, I can relate to both sides of the argument. A restaurant costs money and believe it or not, restaurants pay for tap water coming into their premises.

Read on to understand why some restaurants charge for tap water and others don’t.

Can Restaurants Charge For Water: The Basics

It is a common practice for restaurants to provide complimentary tap water to their customers.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. According to the National Restaurant Association, charging for water is not illegal, provided that the restaurant informs its customers beforehand that they will be charged for water.

Nonetheless, while charging for water is legal, some diners may view it as an unethical and inconsiderate act by the restaurant.

Hence, most restaurants would usually provide water for free, unless otherwise stated.

Why Restaurants Sometimes Charge For Water

Restaurants may choose to charge for water due to several reasons.

Firstly, the cost of operating a restaurant involves a wide range of expenses, including labor, rent, and utilities.

Adding a few cents to the bill for a glass of water can help offset these costs.

Secondly, some restaurants may offer high-quality bottled water and charge a premium for it.

In such cases, the restaurant is not charging for tap water, but for a premium product.

Lastly, some restaurants may have a policy of not serving tap water due to concerns over its quality.

Instead, they may rely on bottled water or other alternatives, which they charge for.

Is It Ethical For Restaurants To Charge For Water?

While it is not illegal for restaurants to charge for water, some diners may view it as unethical.

It is always best for restaurants to provide complimentary water to their customers, unless they serve a premium product or have concerns over the quality of tap water.

While charging for water is not illegal, some diners may view it as unethical. Restaurants that charge for water may come across as greedy and inconsiderate.

After all, water is a basic human need, and most diners would expect it to be provided for free at a restaurant.

Moreover, charging for water may also affect the restaurant’s reputation and overall customer experience. Diners may feel that they are being nickel-and-dimed, especially if they are already paying for food and other drinks.

This could lead to a decline in business, as diners may opt to dine elsewhere, the same way you can refuse to pay for service charges.

How To Handle Restaurants That Charge For Water

If you encounter a restaurant that charges for water, you have several options. You can choose to pay for the water, or opt to order a different type of drink instead.

Alternatively, you can choose to dine elsewhere, at a restaurant that offers complimentary water.

Before you visit a restaurant, it is always advisable to check whether they charge for water.

You can do this by checking the restaurant’s website or calling ahead to ask.

FAQs

Summary

In conclusion, while restaurants are legally allowed to charge for water, it is always advisable for them to offer it for free to their customers.

Charging for water may be seen as unethical and inconsiderate, and could lead to a decline in business.

Diners, on the other hand, should always check with the restaurant before ordering if they are unsure whether they will be charged for water.