How to read a menu price in a tourist town

A printed price is a starting point, not a surprise-proof total. In Welsh tourist towns the gap between “mains from £18” and what you pay is usually VAT, service, and what came with the dish — not a hidden scam.

What the number usually means

• VAT is already in most UK restaurant prices. You should not see a separate VAT line for a normal table meal.
• Service may be optional, discretionary, or a stated percentage for larger tables. Read the small print on the menu or bill.
• “From” means the cheapest version of that dish. Sides, upgrades, and drinks sit on top.

Tourist-town patterns

In places like Tenby in peak season, boards and websites often show a band (“mains about £16–£24”) rather than every special. That band is useful for planning; the table menu on the day is what you order from.

Chains and independents both change prices. Prefer a dated menu or a venue page that says when it was checked — then confirm when you book or sit down.

What to do before you order

Check the FSA hygiene rating (0–5) on food.gov.uk, confirm opening hours, and ask about service charge and allergens when you sit down. In Wales the sticker on the door is a legal duty — see food hygiene ratings are law in Wales.

If a menu on our site is wrong, report an update.