Decode a bill
What this solves
Tourists see a Swiss bill with no separate service line and wonder: do I tip? How much? Are they scamming me? Some Swiss restaurants add unusual items: bread charges, water charges, plate charges. This tool sorts them.
How to read
- Service compris / inkl. Bedienung: service in price. Tipping optional (5-10% appreciated).
- Coperto: Ticino charge CHF 2-5 per person for bread & cutlery.
- Couvert: sometimes the same as coperto.
- Eau/carafe: tap water can come with a CHF 1-3 charge in Ticino.
Limitations
- Tap water is not free everywhere in Switzerland — Ticino charges 2-3 CHF, Geneva is mixed.
- Some restaurants post "Price Quality" without breakdown — ask if unclear.
FAQ
Is service always included?
Yes by law (minimum wage compliance). Some high-end add 5-10% on top — check the menu fine print.
Sources
- GastroSuisse member policies
- Author's 2023-2026 receipts across 4 language regions
About
Built after getting a CHF 4 coperto charge in Ticino and being surprised — it's universal there, but no guidebook explains.
Privacy
No tracking. See homepage privacy.
Disclaimer
Reference. Verify before tipping large amounts.