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Many first-time visitors to Buenos Aires are surprised by an extra line on a restaurant bill called “cubierto.” This is the short answer; our tipping and cubierto guide has the full explanation with examples.
What is the cubierto charge? #
- Cubierto literally means “cover charge”.
- It is a per-person fee added at many sit-down restaurants, especially parrillas and traditional bodegones.
- It is not a tip. It goes to the restaurant, not the staff.
- It usually covers the table setup (bread and dips), linens and service, and in some places table water.
Things to know #
- In Buenos Aires City, a restaurant that charges it must say so on a sign at the entrance and on the menu, with the amount.
- Cafes, bars, fast food and most modern restaurants do not charge it. Traditional parrillas and restaurants in tourist areas often do.
- The amount varies by restaurant and changes with inflation, so check the menu rather than relying on a figure.
- You still tip separately, normally around 10 percent, in cash if you can.
Related: Tipping in Buenos Aires | Food and Drink
