What does the cover charge include?
ko-PEHR-to — three syllables, stress on second. 'include' = een-KLOO-deh.
Use when you see a 'coperto' charge on the bill and want to understand what it covers. The coperto is a standard Italian restaurant charge, not optional in most cases.
'Coperto' literally means 'covered' — it's a fixed per-person charge for the table setting, bread service, and use of the establishment. It ranges from €1-5 per person and is printed on menus. It is NOT a tip.
Il coperto è per persona?
Is the cover charge per person?
Clarifying whether it's per person or per table.
Il pane è incluso nel coperto?
Is bread included in the cover charge?
Usually yes — bread is typically part of the coperto.
Perché c'è una voce 'pane e coperto'?
Why is there a 'bread and cover' line item?
Questioning a combined charge.
The 'coperto' is a uniquely Italian restaurant tradition. Some Italian regions (like Lazio) have tried to regulate or abolish it, but it remains common nationwide. By law, it must be stated on the menu. Tourists often mistake it for a scam, but it is a legitimate standard charge.