Some cafes and restaurants in Turkey, in particular in Istanbul, are introducing new service rules. A guest is denied a visit if his order is less than 30-40 liras, it will not work to go in only “for a cup of tea”. In addition, they began to charge for the use of heaters on outdoor terraces – from 3 to 15 liras per hour. This is reported by the Turkish media.
Ramazan Bingöl, president of the Turkish Restaurant and Tourism Association (TÜRES), attributes this practice to rising prices for electricity, groceries, and rising rents. It has become difficult for food establishments, especially small ones, to survive, they are looking for ways to increase profitability.
Maria Sheker, a travel agent and owner of a restaurant in Antalya, commented on the innovations of Turkish restaurateurs to the Dip.org.ua portal with humor: “Great idea! Today I will post an announcement: “The minimum order is 40 lira!” And turning to a serious tone, she explained: there is no such practice in the resorts, and it is unlikely to be. Tourists, who make up a large part of the clientele, will simply ignore cafes that impose such conditions on guests.
As Maria Sheker believes, it seems that small cafes where local residents gather have to set the minimum check amount. Some visitors occupy tables for long hours, chatting, having fun with board games, while ordering only tea. Serving such guests is unprofitable for the institution.
As for restaurants, they are forced to raise prices. The costs of the owners have really increased significantly: electricity in January has risen in price by half compared to December, the same applies to the purchase of many products.