Question 1

What is the "Bar Tab Theft and Overcharging in East End Venues" scam in Adelaide?

Accepted Answer

In the East End bar precinct along Rundle Street, some venues run open tab scams where staff add unauthorized drinks to your running tab or charge for rounds you did not order. Victims typically discover inflated totals at closing time when they are less likely to dispute charges. A variation involves a stranger offering to add drinks to "their table's tab" before disappearing, leaving you liable. This pattern has been reported in multiple Rundle Street venues between Frome Street and East Terrace. Keep your own tally of drinks ordered and check your tab periodically during the night, not just at closing. Pay as you go rather than running an open tab if the venue is busy. Never let strangers add you to their tab.

Question 2

What is the "Overpriced Tourist Restaurants on Rundle Street East" scam in Adelaide?

Accepted Answer

Rundle Street East is Adelaide's main restaurant and bar strip. Establishments at the eastern end targeting tourists charge a premium for standard meals and may add automatic service charges or weekend surcharges without prominently disclosing them. Menu prices presented to tourists sometimes differ from those shown on online listings. Check menus outside or online before being seated. Ask if any surcharges apply before ordering — weekend and public holiday surcharges are legal in Australia but must be disclosed. A 10–15% surcharge on weekends and public holidays is standard practice and is not itself a scam, but it should be disclosed.

Restaurant Scams in Adelaide

Bar Tab Theft and Overcharging in East End Venues

Overpriced Tourist Restaurants on Rundle Street East

Experienced a scam here?