Restaurant Scams in Charleston, USA
Inflated bills, hidden charges, tourist menus, and food service tricks. Below are the restaurant scams scams reported in Charleston — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Tulum.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
1
Restaurant Scams Scams
10
Total in Charleston
How it works
Restaurants in the Historic District have introduced undisclosed surcharges — inflation fees, kitchen fees, and hospitality fees — not listed on the menu. The Post and Courier specifically reported on this practice in Charleston. Tablet-based POS systems frequently show a tip prompt even after auto-gratuity has already been applied, pressuring tourists into tipping twice.
See all scams in Charleston
10 total warnings across all categories