7 things cheap people do at nice restaurants that instantly give them away

There's a fine line between being savvy with your money and just being downright cheap. Especially when it comes to dining in nice restaurants, certain actions can instantly reveal a penny pincher in disguise.

Sure, we all enjoy a good deal, but there are ways to keep your budget intact without compromising your dining etiquette. And trust me, restaurant staff and your dinner companions can spot these cost-cutting behaviors a mile away.

Stick around as I unveil the 7 things cheap people do at upscale establishments that give them away. It's time to learn the dos and don'ts of frugal fine dining!

1) Overanalyzing the bill

We've all been there - that awkward moment when the bill arrives. But for some, this is the moment of truth.

One telltale sign of a penny pincher at a nice restaurant is someone who spends an inordinate amount of time overanalyzing the bill. They scrutinize every charge, every tax, and even the calculation of the tip.

Now, don't get me wrong. It's smart to check for errors, especially when dining at high-end eateries where bills can run high. But there's a difference between a quick scan and a full-on audit happening right at the table.

When this behavior emerges, it becomes clear that their primary concern isn't about accuracy - it's about spending as little as possible. And trust me, it doesn't go unnoticed.

2) Skipping the appetizers and desserts

I remember a dinner I had with a friend at a high-end Italian restaurant. The place was known for its delicious appetizers and irresistible desserts. As we sat down, my friend quickly dismissed the idea of ordering either, saying he wasn't 'that hungry'.

But here's the thing - he didn't even glance at the menu when he made that call. It was clear that his decision wasn't driven by his appetite but rather his wallet.

Now, there's nothing wrong with skipping courses to save money. We've all done it. But when you're at a nice restaurant, refusing to even consider these parts of the meal can be a dead giveaway of penny-pinching habits. It's one of those subtle things cheap people do that can instantly give them away.

3) Constantly opting for the cheapest wine

Did you know that restaurant owners are quite savvy when it comes to their wine list? They're acutely aware that some diners will always opt for the cheapest bottle to save a few bucks. As a result, they often hike up the price of their second or third cheapest option, knowing it's likely to be chosen by those trying to avoid looking cheap by not picking the absolute lowest-priced bottle.

So when someone consistently goes straight for the least expensive wine without considering other options, it's a pretty clear signal of their cost-cutting mindset. Of course, there's nothing wrong with liking affordable wine, but refusing to venture out of the bottom price bracket can be a dead giveaway.

4) Bringing their own extras

Imagine you're at a nice restaurant and you spot someone pulling out their own pack of sweeteners or condiments from their bag. It's certainly not a common sight, but it happens.

While some might argue it's about personal preference, more often than not, it's a money-saving strategy. By bringing their own extras, they avoid any potential extra charges or the need to order additional items.

This habit, while seemingly innocuous, is actually a subtle sign of someone trying to cut corners financially. And it's one of those things that can instantly give away a budget-conscious diner in a more upscale setting.

5) Avoiding shared dishes

I've always been a fan of shared dishes. There's something about exploring a variety of flavors and dishes together that makes the dining experience richer and more enjoyable.

However, I had a dining partner once who would always avoid shared plates. At first, I thought it was due to their dietary preference or restrictions. But as it turned out, they were worried about the cost of these communal dishes and how it would impact their share of the bill.

This reluctance to partake in shared dishes, especially when it's not driven by dietary needs or preferences, can be another subtle indicator of someone's frugality. It's a behavior that signals a priority on cost over experience, and it can quickly give away someone's budget-minded approach to dining out.

6) Always choosing the daily specials

Daily specials can be a fantastic way to try something new and exciting at a restaurant. They often feature fresh, seasonal ingredients and showcase the chef's creativity. However, some diners see these specials as an opportunity to save money.

While it's not always the case, daily specials can sometimes be cheaper than other items on the menu, making them an attractive choice for those looking to save a buck or two. When someone consistently orders these specials without showing much interest in the rest of the menu, it can be a sign of their frugal mindset.

Remember, there's nothing wrong with being budget-conscious, but when it becomes a pattern, it's one of those things that can instantly give a diner away.

7) Never offering to pick up the tab

The ultimate giveaway of a penny pincher at a nice restaurant? Never offering to pick up the tab.

We all know that person who conveniently disappears when it's time to pay or who never even reaches for their wallet. It's not about expecting someone to always foot the bill, but there's a certain etiquette to at least offering, especially if you're enjoying a meal with friends or family.

This behavior is the most telling sign of someone prioritizing their budget over the shared dining experience. And trust me, it's a habit that doesn't go unnoticed.