Would You Split the Check?

Olazzo's Shrimp and Crab Rosé

When dining out with friends, and it comes time to paying the bill, would you split the tab? Or, would you request separate checks?

What if someone orders significantly more than you? What if their party is larger than yours? Is it fair to go halfsies on a bill when you didn't technically eat half the food?


What if you're a college student or even unemployed, and money is hard to come by?

What if you're out of town visiting friends or relatives, and you go out to dinner. Is it okay to treat them to a meal, or is it customary that the hosting family or friends pick up the tab?

There are so many rules with etiquette and dining out. I say just do what's in your budget, and what you're comfortable with. I've picked up the tab many times, I've split the check, and at times, I've asked for separate bills.

To be honest, I'm okay with splitting the check when two parties are about equal in number, appetizers are shared and entrees are about equal too. It's not about being nit picky, but I'm not okay with splitting the check when another party clearly orders more food, drinks, and dessert.  At this point, it's not even about dollars and cents but more about the principle of the situation.  In this case, I think people should offer to pay for their own meal.

Have you ever been in a situation when you were expected to split the bill, and you couldn't afford to, or didn't think it was fair?

What are your thoughts?