A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Keep the change" in Italian
Tell your server to keep the change after paying the bill at a restaurant or cafe in Italy.
Tenga il resto.
TEN-gah eel RES-tohneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
This is what you say when you've paid with cash and don't want your change back. It's common after a meal or a coffee when the bill is small and you're happy with the service.
Alternatives
- Tieni il resto.Use 'Tieni' (tu form) if you're with friends or the server is very young and you're being very casual.
- Può tenersi il resto.This is a slightly more polite and indirect way to say the same thing.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Lasci il resto'.
'Lasciare' means to leave something behind, but 'tenere' means to keep, which is more accurate here.
Pronounce 'resto' correctly.
Make sure to pronounce the 'e' in 'resto' like in 'rest' and the 'o' like in 'go', not like the English word 'rest'.
A small cultural note
While tipping isn't as expected as in some countries, leaving a small amount of change is a common gesture of appreciation for good service.
Frequently asked
How to say keep the change in Italian?
The most standard way is 'Tenga il resto.' This politely tells the server to keep the change after you pay.
When do Italians say keep the change?
It's usually said after paying in cash when you're satisfied with the service and don't need the small coins back. It's a way to show appreciation.
Is 'Tenga il resto' formal or informal?
It's generally neutral, using the polite 'Lei' form. For a very casual situation with someone you know, you might use 'Tieni il resto.'
