Cafe said the card machine is broken then quoted a higher cash price than the board — walk out or pay?
Menu board had clear prices. Card declined as broken. Cash quote for the same two drinks came out higher than the board total. Feels like a sticky trick. Do I pay the board price in cash, walk to another cafe, or am I misreading a service norm?
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3 Answers from travellers
Card machines do fail, but the cash total should still match the board — a sudden higher cash quote is a reason to smile and leave. Pay only the listed price if you stay; do not reward a made-up uplift. Another cafe nearby will usually take cash at the written price or have a working machine. No need for a scene; take your business next door. Travelers who calmly walk out teach better than arguments.
Walked out once, paid board price next door. Sticky cafe does not deserve the sale.
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