A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Is there a service charge" in Spanish
Ask if a service charge is included in your restaurant bill in Spanish-speaking countries.
¿Hay cargo por servicio?
EYE CAR-go por ser-VEE-see-ohneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase when you receive the bill at a restaurant and want to confirm if a tip or service fee is already added. It's a good way to avoid confusion about how much to pay.
Alternatives
- ¿El servicio está incluido?More direct question about inclusion.
- ¿Tienen cargo por servicio?Slightly more formal phrasing.
Ways to get it wrong
Confusing 'cargo' with 'cargo'
'Cargo' means charge or fee, not a ship or a military charge.
Using 'servicio' incorrectly
'Servicio' refers to service in general, but here it's specifically about the service charge.
A small cultural note
In many Latin American countries, a service charge (often 10%) is automatically added to the bill. Tipping on top of this is usually not expected, but check local customs.
Frequently asked
what is a service charge in mexico restaurants
A service charge in Mexican restaurants is usually a mandatory fee added to your bill, often around 10%. It's meant to cover service staff wages.
do i tip if there is a service charge
Generally, if a service charge is already included, an additional tip is not required. However, if the service was exceptional, you may choose to leave a little extra.
how to ask for the bill in spanish
You can ask for the bill by saying 'La cuenta, por favor.' This is a polite and common way to request it.
