Brits Are Split on How to Settle the Restaurant Bill After a Meal With Friends and Family.

Brits have differing opinions on how to settle the restaurant bill after a meal with friends and family, according to a study of 2,000 diners by comparethemarket.com.

The research revealed that 34 percent of respondents believe the bill should be split evenly, including the tip, while 36 percent think it should be divided based on each individual’s order.

Approaching how to pay leaves 43 percent of diners feeling awkward, but 80 percent stated that such experiences would not deter them from returning to restaurants as they continue to reopen.

Splitting the bill, however, is seen as part of the dining out experience by 63 percent of those surveyed.

Julie Daniels, Head of Rewards at comparethemarket.com, said: “Splitting the bill often divides opinion, as our research shows. But one thing is for sure, people are looking forward to dining out again and plan to make up for lost time.”

The study also found that 42 percent of respondents have agreed to pay more than they wanted to avoid an uncomfortable situation, and the same percentage has done so to appear generous. Additionally, 19 percent have left a larger tip to compensate for an uncomfortable payment experience, and 20 percent have paid the entire bill on behalf of others to avoid awkwardness.

Over a quarter (26 percent) of respondents have been involved in disputes over whether to leave a tip, with an average tip amount of £8.25.

On average, respondents have had to wait six minutes and 45 seconds to settle a bill, and 52 percent have felt embarrassed by the actions of their dining companions during payment.

Despite the challenges, 65 percent of respondents are eager to make up for lost time when it comes to dining out, with 13 percent even stating that they missed such moments.

Julie Daniels added: “Hopefully, splitting the bill will be a little easier as Meerkat Meals, in addition to offering 2 for 1 on selected food at participating restaurants from Sunday to Thursday, now includes 25 percent off the entire bill at various venues on different days of the week. Customers can access these deals through the Meerkat app, with options available at popular chain restaurants and local independent establishments.”

Scott Calland

Scott Calland is a highly regarded content specialist with an English Degree. He has a passion for creating compelling content as a UK journalist that engages, informs, and entertains readers. With over 10 years of experience in creating news publications as a reporter, Scott has developed a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of how to craft content that resonates with audiences. Working closely with data analysts Scott’s research on topics is unrivalled for latest news updates.

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