Dining Out with Non-Drinkers: The Fair Way to Split the Bill

The “Dry January” Tax

It is a universal truth: Alcohol doubles the bill. A pasta dish is £16. Two glasses of wine are £18. If you are not drinking, an even split means you are paying £34 for a £16 meal. You are effectively paying an 100% tax for the privilege of being sober.

The Etiquette for Drinkers

If you are the one drinking wine/cocktails/beers, it is your responsibility to suggest a separate split. Do not wait for the non-drinker to awkwardly ask. Be a good friend. > “Since we had the wine, shall we pay for that separately and then split the food?”

The Etiquette for Non-Drinkers

If your friends don’t offer, you must speak up. But timing is everything. Don’t: Wait until the card machine is in the waiter’s hand to do complex mental math. Do: Say it when the bill arrives. “I didn’t drink, so I’ll just cover my food and the service charge.”

The “Service Charge” Nuance

If you pay for your item specifically (£16), do not forget to add the service charge (usually 12.5%). If you only pay exactly £16, you are forcing your friends to cover your tip. That is stingy. The Math: £16 x 1.125 = £18. Pay £18.

Conclusion

In 2026, with more people choosing sobriety or “damp” lifestyles, the default assumption should be that alcohol is paid for by the drinker. It’s not about being cheap; it’s about respect.