It’s astonishing that people are surprised by this. I’m fine with it. It’s either stay in business or we lose choices of restaurants. Just raising prices means you also have to reprint menus, then reprint again when things get back to normal. And yes, competition will drive prices back down as possible. So a surcharge is the obvious option - but you should have a sign upon entering, don’t let it be a surprise.
I was expecting it. Maybe these people should just eat at home for the time being, its cheaper. Eating out right now should be more expensive, and I’ll tip more too. For the lucky ones like me that have continued to get paid and work from home, I’ve saved a load from cooking at home. When I can start dining out again I was going to spend a little more anyway. Those that can do this should, it’s the way to get this economy back on track.
“It’s astonishing that people are surprised by this. I’m fine with it.”
Me, too. Maybe it would be better if they posted it on their doors as you go in. I think most people would be OK with it, rather than a “surprise” on the bill.