How do I tell them I don't want to split the bill?

Question

My friends and I are going out to a bar tonight. This is my first bar night.

Usually they each order an appetizer and everyone shares and then splits the bill.

I don't want to do this because I just want to order a drink. Why should I pay for something I'm not going to eat?

How do I let them know I want a separate check without coming off cheap?

Answer 1

I agree with you. A better way could be not to go with them. Yes, because if you go with them then you will have to contribute the bill amount no matter what you eat or even if you don't eat at all.

Answer 2

just say when they ask if you want to go eat just say i cant right now i don't really have the money or Else i would love to

Answer 3

Just have the bartender put your drinks on your own tab.  Just be sure to tell them at the begining.

Answer 4

This came up on an episode of Friends, if you watch that show.  You should suggest to your friends (before they start drinking) that you'd like to have a separate check.

Answer 5

When the check comes put your money in and just say "here's some money for my DRINK"

(make a point to say what you had....especially if you had only a drink and not an entree)

Just make sure you throw a little extra down to cover tax and tip for the amount that your part came to.  And if you have some of the appetizers, you should chip in for that too.

Answer 6

Not wanting to pay for something you didn't purchase doesn't make you cheap, it makes you smart.  You can do two things, get there early and start your own check, (if it makes you comfortable to make an excuse for getting there early then I say "Just do it!", or if you are comfortable with these people in just being yourself say, Look guys, I love Ya, but times are tight right now, so I'm just going to be my own date tonight and take care of me.  Don't ever be embarrassed to take care of yourself first, whoever called you cheap, has obviously not ever been in a normal situation where you get stuck paying for $25 of something you not only didn't buy, you didn't eat.  Don't worry about it, some people just don't get it.

Have Fun!

Answer 7

just give them heads up say  that your paying for your stuff only .and that your only getting a drink.*

Answer 8

Don't take others idiotic comments about being cheap to heart.  It is typically the mooching, cheapskate that wants to split the bill because they can order a whole bunch of c**p and then those that don't end up paying for half their garbage.  

Do not feel bad because you don't want to split the bill.  The only reason others like to do it is because they are cheap...and don't have enough sense to realize it.

When the waitress comes to the table just ask her to keep your check separate.  If someone gives you a look, just tell them you can't afford a big tab tonight.  If they get ill, then know that it is because they want to mooch off you.  You need to find more financially responsible friends.

Answer 9

Dont worry about it just say it.  If anyone balks at you just say well Im not eating, just having a drink.

Answer 10

Leave early/go to the bathroom just before their about to pay, but tell leave the money to pay for the drink with them, then you'll only be paying for your drink and you won't come off cheap.

Answer 11

I'm not really hungry guys so I'm just going to get my own check, Kay?

Answer 12

When the waitress comes around for the order, ask for a separate check.  Good Luck!

Answer 13

if they are real friends then they will understand when your upfront and let them know that you would like a separate check its your money and feel good about how YOU spend it enjoy your evening out and good luck