Dining: Tipping and Payment in Brazil: what actually matters to know
Short answer
Brazilian restaurants typically include a 10-12% service charge on the bill, which is expected to be paid despite being technically optional. In 'por quilo' restaurants, costs are calculated by weight, so always verify the final receipt for accuracy.
From real experience
In Brazil, a service charge ('serviço') of 10% is often automatically included in restaurant bills.
Advise users to check their bill for this charge, as it is customary and usually non-negotiable unless the service was exceptionally poor. Explain that this covers the staff's wages and additional tipping is at the customer's discretion.
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In Brazil, restaurants may add a 10-12% service charge and a 'couvert artístico' (live music fee) to the bill.
These charges are typically optional or negotiable; customers have the right to request their removal from the final invoice if they were not explicitly informed or if the service was unsatisfactory.
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Brazilian self-service restaurants (por quilo) calculate costs by weight.
Prices can vary based on food items (meat is often charged separately) or time of day. While rare, tourists ('gringos') may occasionally face price discrepancies; verifying the receipt or asking about pricing policy is recommended.
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In Brazil, a 10% service charge is standard in restaurants.
While technically optional, refusing to pay it is considered highly offensive and socially unacceptable.