Question 1

What is the "Waterfront Restaurant Cover Charge" scam in Cape Town?

Accepted Answer

Some restaurants on the V&A Waterfront add a "per head cover" or "table booking fee" to bills that is not displayed on the menu. Bills can be R50–100 per person higher than expected. Ask about all additional charges before sitting down. Confirm the menu prices include all service fees.

Question 2

What is the "Long Street Bar "Tourist Price" Menu Swap" scam in Cape Town?

Accepted Answer

On Long Street and in the De Waterkant area, some bars and restaurants present tourists with inflated price menus while locals pay standard prices. Staff may quote a verbal price at the bar that differs from what appears on the bill, adding nebulous "service charges" of 10–15% not disclosed upfront. In some cases a second, higher-priced menu is produced after customers are seated. The discrepancy is usually discovered only when the bill arrives. Always request a printed menu with prices before ordering. Confirm verbally quoted prices are per item, not per round. Query any charges on the bill before paying and insist on an itemised receipt.

Restaurant Scams in Cape Town

Waterfront Restaurant Cover Charge

Long Street Bar "Tourist Price" Menu Swap

Experienced a scam here?