Do you pay before or after?
SI PA-ga — 'si paga' is an impersonal construction. PAY-ga stress on first syllable.
In some Italian bars you pay at the cash desk ('cassa') first, then take the receipt to the barista. In others you pay after. Always confirm to avoid embarrassment.
Italian bars use two systems: 'pre-pay at the cassa' (pay first, show receipt to barista) or 'post-pay at the bar' (order at the bar, pay at the end). The pre-pay system is common in Rome, less so in Milan or Naples.
Devo pagare alla cassa?
Do I need to pay at the till?
Direct question — 'cassa' is the cash desk/till
Pago subito o alla fine?
Do I pay now or at the end?
Casual version — 'alla fine' means at the end of your visit
Lo scontrino ce l'ho già.
I already have the receipt.
Say this to the barista if you have pre-paid at the cassa
The pre-pay system at the 'cassa' originated in Rome and is found throughout central and southern Italy. It was designed to prevent theft and ensure every order is tracked. In the north and in most modern bars, you pay at the end like in a café anywhere else.