A Bengaluru-based Bistro has introduced a ₹5 convenience fee for the time guests spend on the premises, stirring debate among diners. This fee aims to manage seating turnover and discourage lingering—but it also raises fresh questions about service charges and consumer rights.
What Is the ₹5 Convenience Fee?
Following the model of places like Minute Bistro, where patrons pay per minute, this Bistro charges a flat ₹5 fee regardless of the order placed. The fee is tagged as a convenience/time-management surcharge and appears automatically on every bill.
Why the Bistro Implemented It
- Manage Table Turnover
The fee encourages diners to finish promptly, helping the bistro serve more customers during peak hours. - Offset Operational Costs
It covers utilities, seating space, and other overheads—much like platform/convenience fees in apps - Leverage Social Norms
Patrons accustomed to small online convenience fees may be open to the practice even in physical venues - Transparent Setup
If clearly communicated (on menus or signboards), this fee is legally acceptable—vendors often justify service or convenience charges if pre-disclosed
Customer Reactions
Reactions have been mixed:
- Complaints: Many see it as a hidden or unfair charge, especially if diners aren’t aware in advance.
- Acceptance: Some find ₹5 negligible and accept it as part of modern dining costs, akin to online ticket or app fees.
Consumer Rights & Service Charge Regulations
- Under CCPA and Delhi HC guidelines, any service or convenience fee must be optional and disclosed upfront
- Fees disguised under new names but applied by default may violate consumer protection laws, which prohibit coercive or hidden charges
What Diners Should Do
- Look for signage or menu disclosure about the ₹5 fee.
- Ask for waiver if you believe it wasn’t clearly communicated.
- File complaints through the National Consumer Helpline (1915) or E-Daakhil portal if charged without consent
Conclusion
The Bistro’s introduction of a ₹5 convenience fee reflects a growing trend of time- or service-based fares in dining. Acceptable only when transparent and consensual, this model highlights a balancing act: innovative revenue strategies vs. consumer rights and fairness.
