Scam in CubaFood and drink
Higher tourist menu revealed after eating in Cuba
How it works
A restaurant reveals a special tourist price menu only after you have consumed food or drinks. You then face prices you did not agree to beforehand.
Warning signs
- You are encouraged to order without seeing prices.
- Staff avoid answering questions about the total cost.
- A different menu appears when the bill arrives.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the menu or prices before ordering.
- Confirm the price of anything not listed.
- Keep a photo of the menu if prices are unclear.
If it happens to you
Ask for an itemised bill and show the prices you were given. Request a manager to resolve the difference.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- If a card is involved, contact the issuer immediately. Freeze or block it and report unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, contracts, messages and booking details. Write down the time, location, amount lost and a description of those involved.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance purposes.
- Contact your insurer if you may have a claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about a replacement.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the higher tourist menu revealed after eating scam in Cuba?
A restaurant reveals a special tourist price menu only after you have consumed food or drinks. You then face prices you did not agree to beforehand.
How can I spot it early?
You are encouraged to order without seeing prices. Staff avoid answering questions about the total cost. A different menu appears when the bill arrives.
How do I avoid higher tourist menu revealed after eating in Cuba?
Ask for the menu or prices before ordering. Confirm the price of anything not listed. Keep a photo of the menu if prices are unclear.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for an itemised bill and show the prices you were given. Request a manager to resolve the difference.
Where in Cuba does this happen?
Local restaurants in Havana It has been reported in Havana.
How common is this scam in Cuba?
Occasional. Cuba is generally safe, but scams targeting tourists are common. The main risks are inflated taxi fares, costly invitations from strangers, dubious cigars, money-changing tricks and card fraud. Theft is also possible, including night-time muggings in parts of Havana.
Are there similar scams in Cuba?
Yes: friendly invitations that lead to an inflated bill, refilled and resealed drinking water.
Who can I report it to?
National Revolutionary Police: call 106 in an emergency. For a non-emergency theft or fraud report, seek help from a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer: use your issuer's official app or published contact number to block a compromised card and dispute unauthorised transactions. Business management: for disputed restaurant bills, missing change or rental surcharges, show your receipts or written agreement and ask a manager to resolve the charge. Travel insurer: contact your insurer through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence and any police report. Your embassy or consulate: contact its official consular service if your passport is stolen or you need urgent consular assistance.
What number do I call in an emergency in Cuba?
National Revolutionary Police: 106, SIUM ambulance services: 104, Fire Department: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck