Question 1

What is the "Restaurant Tout with Hidden Cover Charges" scam in Florence?

Accepted Answer

Promoters outside tourist-area restaurants near the Duomo offer free wine or special menus to draw tourists in. Once seated, cover charges, service fees, and premium pricing appear on the bill not visible on the promoted menu. Ask for the actual menu with all charges before sitting. Check for coperto and servizio lines. Restaurants that have promoters outside the door typically have the highest markups. Choose places where locals are eating.

Question 2

What is the "Restaurant Cover Charge Shock" scam in Florence?

Accepted Answer

Restaurants in the historic centre — especially near the Duomo — routinely add coperto (cover charge) of €3–8 per person, plus a bread charge. These appear at the bottom of bills and are rarely disclosed upfront. Ask about coperto charges before sitting down. Many restaurants a block or two from major sights charge no cover.

Restaurant Scams in Florence

Restaurant Tout with Hidden Cover Charges

Restaurant Cover Charge Shock

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