Question 1

What is the "Tourist Restaurant Overcharging on Aristides Villanueva" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Restaurants and bars along Avenida Aristides Villanueva, Mendoza's main nightlife strip, present tourist-oriented menus with inflated prices and add undisclosed service charges. Some establishments charge a cubierto (cover charge) not mentioned at seating and add items to bills that were not ordered. Ask for the full menu with prices before sitting. Confirm whether a cubierto applies. Check the itemized bill against your order before paying and query any unrecognized charges immediately.

Question 2

What is the "Nightclub Hostess Drink Scam" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

On and around Avenida Aristides Villanueva and in venues promoted by street touts, tourists are lured into bars or clubs with offers of free entry, discounted drinks, or promises of a local experience. Once inside, attractive individuals join their table and order multiple rounds of expensive drinks. When the bill arrives, it includes all drinks consumed by the new companions at inflated prices — often US$50–100 per drink. Bouncers at the exit prevent leaving until the full bill is paid. This is distinct from standard restaurant overcharging and involves organised groups operating specific venues. Never enter a bar or club that a stranger on the street has approached you to recommend. Ask to see a full drinks menu with prices before ordering anything. If charged an inflated bill, remain calm, pay what is reasonable, and leave immediately. Report to police if threatened.

Restaurant Scams in Mendoza

Tourist Restaurant Overcharging on Aristides Villanueva

Nightclub Hostess Drink Scam

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