Comments on: Thoughts on Game Theory: Why Do Restaurants Serve My Food to Everyone?

By: Presh

Presh — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:40:22 +0000

Great article. I have even been to restaurants that explicitly say they will not split the bill–a sure sign the owner wants everyone to overpay

Like others I have gotten very angry overpaying for several years, particularly at birthday parties with a large number of people. I’ve blogged about how groups should organize fixed price menus and even consider asking people to order in advance. Everyone knows what they are getting into so everyone is prepared with money and the party is more fun.

By: Anupa

Anupa — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 22:06:03 +0000

I would definitely NOT want to go out for lunch with you! That aside, sharing food tends to bond people and enhance group dynamics. And so, yes, I agree with your wife when she says that social etiquette demands that you share food when you’re out in a group. It IS good manners! And of course, it allows you to experience a wide range of food.

By: Raymond

Raymond — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 21:59:32 +0000

You answered your own question with——

“if it was decided beforehand that each person will pay for what they order…..”

I have stood at grocery checkout lines where on more than one occasion observed people buying steak and lobster with a food stamp card. No law was broken, but…….

Are they buying it because they have good taste or because they considered it a freebie? I think both.

Come to think of it, my daughters order up when my wife and I take them out to our occasional nice restaurant.
Whereas if they knew they were paying for the meal, their eyes make it to right hand side of the menu, where prices are listed.