Few things are more annoying than paying for what should be free. It's one thing being overcharged but no one wants to be taken for a fool. Yet in Belgium, paying for tap water is one of those daily acts of extortion that can end a good meal on a bitter note.
In recognition of what many see as daylight robbery, Wallonia's government had promised in 2019 to forbid the hospitality industry from charging for tap water – a policy that would surely be a winner with the majority of the electorate. But their plan has come to nothing, with the Royal Association of the Waters and Soft Drinks Industry pooh-poohing what they consider an absurd idea.
Yet when we learn that water, whether bottled or in a carafe, is a not-insignificant source of revenue for restaurants, it's hard to see how this isn't a state-condoned con. In other countries it is prohibited to deny tap water to a client. And the argument that there is a water bill to pay at the end of each year is, frankly, flimsy. For all the energy of inflation, there can be no justification for charging several euros for what comes from the tap.
What gets diners' goat is how brazen the arnaque is. Any reasonable restauranteur would realise that a little tweaking of prices elsewhere will hide the ploy without them taking a hit. Keeping customers sated and satisfied is what the business is all about. It's details like this that will fill tables with regulars or lead to one-star reviews from peeved patrons.
Imagine the losses in tips from disgruntled diners who have taken umbrage with a few euros on the bill for turning the tap on. In a place that's hardly an arid dustbowl, let those wishing to pay for H2O choose from the selection of bottled Belgian spring water. The country also boasts an extensive selection of other fluids that might be sold with a sizeable markup.
Until then, wily waiters would be wise to present brimming carafes gratos (and with a big smile). This apparent act of largesse will surely work in their favour when it comes to tipping time.
Tired of feeling ripped-off? Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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