Restaurant Scams in India: What You Need to Know

Let me tell you about my experience with restaurant scams in India and how you can avoid them. I recently ordered a mango shake, and honestly, it looked absolutely delicious. But what happened next was an eye-opener. Some restaurants here employ sneaky tactics, and you need to stay alert to avoid getting overcharged.

Here’s what happened: I asked for a lassi, and the waiter quoted me ₹280. That’s the kind of price you’d expect at a five-star hotel, not at a regular restaurant or food stall. A lassi, which is a staple drink in India, typically costs between ₹30 and ₹100. At a beachfront location like this, you might pay ₹100 at most due to the prime location, but ₹280? That’s outrageous! Clearly, the waiter was hoping to pocket the extra ₹180. These tricks can happen, so it’s essential to stay vigilant.

To help you navigate dining in India, here are five crucial tips based on my own experiences. These scams have happened to me multiple times, so learn from my mistakes:

1. Always Check Your Bill Before PayingOnce you’ve handed over your money, getting it back is nearly impossible. Refunds are not a common practice here, so double-check your bill carefully. Often, restaurants will sneak in extra items, especially if you’re dining with a group. For instance, instead of listing four fresh lime sodas, they might add a fifth one, hoping you won’t notice. Always scrutinize the bill before settling it.
2. Watch for Items You Didn’t OrderSometimes, restaurants include dishes you never even ordered. This happened to me recently when "mixed Hakka noodles" mysteriously appeared on my bill. If a dish didn’t make it to your table, it shouldn’t be on the bill—simple as that. Double-check to ensure everything matches what you actually ordered and received.
3. Be Aware if Food Doesn’t ArriveIf you ordered something and it never came, make sure it’s not listed on the bill. This can happen more often than you think. Restaurants might hope you’re too distracted or in a hurry to notice, so stay alert.
4. Always Check Your ChangeThis one’s critical, especially in smaller shops or roadside stalls. Shopkeepers may try to shortchange you, either accidentally or intentionally. This happened to me recently at a little store near Mannat. Always count your change before walking away to ensure you’re not being cheated.
5. Verify Prices on the Menu Before OrderingThis might sound obvious, but it’s easy to forget when you’re caught up in the excitement of exploring. Always check the menu prices before placing your order, and confirm the cost with the waiter if you’re unsure. Sometimes, restaurants might try to charge higher prices than what’s listed, especially if they think you’re not paying attention.
6. While these tips might sound simple, it’s surprisingly easy to overlook them when you’re traveling, having fun, or dining with a group. Unfortunately, it’s often during those moments of distraction that you’re most vulnerable to scams. Taking a few extra minutes to double-check everything can save you a lot of frustration and money.

So, the next time you’re dining out in India, remember to stay alert and follow these tips. It’ll make your experience much more enjoyable and stress-free. Don’t let small scams ruin the fun of exploring this incredible country. Stay smart, and enjoy every moment of your journey!