A study of 2,000 adults found the average person has paid more than they should have for a meal just to avoid a confrontation with their dining companions
Diners refuse to split the bill with others if there’s a price difference of more than £27.57, according to a recent poll of 2,000 adults that revealed key attitudes towards eating out. The study found that diners would decline to split the bill evenly beyond £27 and instead choose to pay only for what they ordered.
Alcohol proved to be a significant issue, with 55 per cent expressing annoyance at having to share a bill with someone indulging in alcohol when they aren’t drinking. The research discovered that most people have previously paid more for dinner than necessary, simply to avoid a dispute over the bill.
The survey also identified ‘billphobia’ – the point at which people start to worry about the cost of their food and drink – kicks in when they spend £89.82 on a meal out. But only 40 percent feel at ease asking others to contribute their fair share if they’ve ordered something pricier.
The research was commissioned by Compare the Market, which is offering a 25 per cent discount on dining out, where individuals who purchase a qualifying product can receive a year’s membership.
Director Kristin Sonfield said: “Billphobia is a real thing for diners. A lot of us have experienced it where we’ve sat down and the bill keeps totting up, and you’re trying to make sure it doesn’t get too expensive.
“Searching for good deals and using discount codes to get money off may mean you don’t have to worry as much when the waiter does arrive with the cheque.”
When it comes to dining out, the mid-tier food option is the most popular, but 37 percent splash out on whatever they fancy, regardless of price. But four in ten confess they have avoided going out for food altogether to dodge bill-related awkwardness.
Most people tend to fret when the bill arrives, with concerns about being overcharged, tipping the right amount and splitting the cost fairly being key sticking points.
The study also discovered that three quarters feel it’s crucial to get good value when dining out – with friendly service, generous portion sizes and locally sourced ingredients, all part of the secret recipe to a good night.
Others relish nothing more than hunting for a good deal when dining out, with pizza, burgers and pasta being the top foods diners love to get money off.
Kristin added: “Dining out should be about good food and good company – but for many, the stress of the final bill can take the joy out of it. With rising prices, being savvy with spending is more important than ever to ensure you’re getting a good deal.”
Top bill worries when eating out
- Being overcharged
- Tipping appropriately
- Splitting the cost fairly
- Someone not paying their share
- Paying for more than you ate
- Worrying about how much it costs
- Whether discounts will be valid
- Not having enough money
- Being judged for what you ordered
- The pressure to pay immediately
