Question 1

What is the "Restaurant Peso/Dollar Price Confusion" scam in Buenos Aires?

Accepted Answer

Some restaurants near tourist areas price their menu in USD or use outdated peso pricing that doesn't reflect current exchange rates, resulting in much higher bills than expected. Confirm which currency menu prices are quoted in before ordering. Ask for the total bill in local pesos before paying.

Question 2

What is the "Restaurant Credit Card Overcharge" scam in Buenos Aires?

Accepted Answer

In a widely reported scam, waiters at certain tourist-facing restaurants process a fraudulent amount on a card terminal at the table — dramatically higher than the actual bill. The charge may be labeled as something unrelated to the meal, such as supply inventory, and tourists who fail to check or retain their receipt have limited recourse when disputing with their bank. One US couple was billed USD $29,695 for a vegetarian lunch in Buenos Aires after the waiter entered wholesale meat supply costs into the terminal. The scam exploits tourists who are unfamiliar with local prices and may not scrutinize a receipt carefully before signing. Always check the amount on the card terminal screen before authorizing payment. Insist on a paper receipt and photograph it with your phone before leaving the table. Use a credit card rather than debit card so you have chargeback protection. If the amount looks wrong, do not sign and demand clarification from the manager.

Restaurant Scams in Buenos Aires

Restaurant Peso/Dollar Price Confusion

Restaurant Credit Card Overcharge

Experienced a scam here?