I went to Applebees (god knows why) on Sunday. I order some mediocre expensive food. After eating I ordered the bill and they totaled it all up 390 pesos or something, then added IVA 41 pesos extra. So when I see in the menu it is 99 pesos it's not really because they are going to add tax on top? I've never seen that in a restaurant before here in Mexico, I understand the add sales tax on after in the US. I don't think they can do it like that can they? It should say somewhere clearly that tax will be added on to the bill right?
Afaik they have to include the tax in the price they advertise, so they cannot do what they did to you. I've seen this done in other restaurants and always raise a fuss about it. The price on the menu needs to already include tax.
I was at Chili's in La Isla, and noticed that it stated tax was not included on the menu. Now this was last year, and the menu has changed, so I am curious if it still says it.
Waddup, Mat Kirk? Just stop going to Applebee's! It's not the same as in the States. (not that it's that great in the States to begin with...) Outback, however, is just as good! You even get a 15% discount for being a local! (We have a card.)
Be careful at Applebees with the check. We were there back in January, at the end of the meal asked for the check. When it came it was machine printed but totaled by hand. When I did he Math it was 100 pesos over. I called the waiter over and showed it to him, his sheepish explanation was that this was the "propina". I said no, bring me another check. I really wasn't thinking, then it dawned on me what he was doing. While he was getting another check, I decided to talk to the manager. The waiter brought another check to the manager and I, this one fully machine printed and correct. I explained what had happened and asked for the original check to show the manager, of course it was nowhere to be found. The manager was only slightly concerned, said it had happened with this waiter before. I paid and left, no tip, and will never go back. This can happen anywhere, it really sucks to be out having a good time and then have to deal with this kind of crap. I enjoy going out in Cancun, but you really have to be on your guard. I think the whole area is getting a bad, and deserved, reputation for sleaziness and ripping off the tourists that are its lifeblood.
We went early Feb, at the time they'd just changed the entire staff over and were offering 2 for 1 for a week or so. Had a similar experience to twoweeker. When we got the check it was hand written, ignored the 2 for 1 deal, and added on a tip despite us being only 2 adults one child. We pointed it out and got the proper check. I'm not sure talking to the Manager does any good, he's likely on 50% anyway. I'm not sure boycotting does much good either. My feeling is, the best way to stop them is to examine your check closely and when you spot a rip off make sure you leave zero tip. That's what will hurt them, because they've worked for nothing. If everyone did that they'd soon stop. It does really piss me off that staff (not just in Applebees, but many places) are so welcoming, friendly and smiling all the time when really all they want to do is scam you. I could take it much better if they were surly and obnoxious, but it's kind of doubly deceptive when they're not.
I ate at Applebees 3 times not long after they opened. I posted on this board that I would NEVER go back, nor have I. Whatever could be wrong, was wrong. Among other things I expect quality, service and value. In three visits, one for each meal actually, they were 0 por todo. Add to that I had a billing problem one time for sure and now I am thinking it might have been twice. Then who needs valet parking at that place. I either parked at Walmart or around he corner. I am surprised that they have lasted this long.
I have been there several times and have not had any problems. The biggest "disadvantage" is that they have portions that are waaay tooo big and lots of my comfort/trigger foods. The sampler appetizer platter is great. I have never had any problems with service or the charges and they are always there to open the door for me. The only disadvantage I find is that the food is a bit bland and they don't have any real Mexican hot sauces--but then it isn't a Mexican restaurant.
