Restaurants in Andalusia are introducing additional fees for the best outdoor tables

The regional government of Andalusia (Junta de Andalucía) has officially allowed restaurant owners to charge guests extra for prime outdoor tables. Now, tourists who want to get a place in the shade or, conversely, in the sun, may be asked to pay for this privilege. But only if the restaurant fulfills several conditions.

Ruben Sanchez, a representative of the consumer association Facua, explained that according to the new rules, the additional premium is not set for the «premium» table itself, but for the dishes served to those sitting at it. Moreover, only if visitors to the establishment were properly informed about this — through the menu, price list, advertisement on the restaurant’s website, or in any other advertising format that is easily accessible to consumers. Thus, verbal communication to guests about the cost of dishes is not enough — this will entail serious fines.

In addition, menu prices must include VAT and cannot be offered via QR code alone. This is because not all visitors use devices that can read them.

Other government restrictions for restaurateurs include:

• paying an additional service fee (the client himself decides to leave a tip);
• charging for bread, tapas, and similar dishes without prior notice;
• refusal to accept cash payments or the introduction of additional fees for using a credit card;
• charging for table reservations.

Also, cafes and restaurants in the region should offer visitors free tap water, rather than insisting on buying bottled water.

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Photo from the site theobjective.com