A restaurant or bar commonly adds a line labelled `taxa de serviço` or `gorjeta`, often around 10%. Current Brazilian consumer guidance is clear: the customer decides whether to pay it and may accept, refuse or choose another amount.
Three lines can look similar
The suggestion should stay separate
Optional means you can use your voice
Procon ES states that imposing the service charge or describing it as mandatory is abusive. A calm sem os dez por cento, por favor asks for the bill without the 10%. A different amount can also be requested.
Do not tip the tip by accident
When the service line is already included and you are happy to pay it, the job is done. A second percentage on the card screen is an additional voluntary gesture, not a required companion to the first line.
Live music is a different purchase
Couvert artístico pays for an announced live performance rather than table service. Consumer guidance generally requires advance, visible information about the charge. It should not appear as a surprise for recorded background music or an undisclosed performance.
Outside the restaurant, keep it human
Round a fair taxi fare or give a guide, hotel worker or performer a direct amount when the service deserves it. There is no need to impose the restaurant's 10% formula on every Brazilian interaction.