Scam in TunisiaFood and drink
Inflated cafe and restaurant bills in Tunisia
How it works
A waiter gives a total calculated in their head instead of an itemised bill. The amount may be higher than you owe. Some places also claim to have no menu, leaving prices unclear before you order.
Warning signs
- The waiter asks for payment without a paper bill.
- You are told there is no menu.
- Prices are not clear before you order.
How to avoid it
- Check prices before ordering.
- Look for a wall menu if no menu is offered.
- Ask for a paper, itemised bill before paying.
- Check each item and the total.
If it happens to you
Ask for an itemised bill and point out any errors before paying. Ask for the manager if needed.
- Move to a safe, public place. Avoid a confrontation if someone becomes aggressive.
- Freeze missing or compromised cards immediately through your bank or card issuer.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amount and any vehicle or business details.
- Keep receipts, bills, booking records and other evidence. Take photos only when safe.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Tell hotel management or airport staff when relevant, and ask for a written record.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
Questions
What is the inflated cafe and restaurant bills scam in Tunisia?
A waiter gives a total calculated in their head instead of an itemised bill. The amount may be higher than you owe. Some places also claim to have no menu, leaving prices unclear before you order.
How can I spot it early?
The waiter asks for payment without a paper bill. You are told there is no menu. Prices are not clear before you order.
How do I avoid inflated cafe and restaurant bills in Tunisia?
Check prices before ordering. Look for a wall menu if no menu is offered. Ask for a paper, itemised bill before paying. Check each item and the total.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for an itemised bill and point out any errors before paying. Ask for the manager if needed.
Where in Tunisia does this happen?
Cafes and restaurants
How common is this scam in Tunisia?
Common. Persistent sellers, unwanted guides and inflated bills are recurring problems for visitors to Tunisia. Theft is widely reported, including from hotel rooms, room safes and airports. Taxi overcharging and pressure to visit shops also need care.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Bring a clear account and any receipts or identifying details. Ask for a written report or reference. Bank or card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Hotel management: report missing room valuables promptly. Ask management to document the incident and help you contact police. Airport staff: ask for immediate help with airport theft or a driver refusing to return luggage. Request a supervisor for a disputed official cash count. Embassy or consulate: use your government's official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need help with replacement travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck