Why Asking for an Itemized Receipt Matters

Martin Ng posted on Instagram that his group of ten paid S$180 for a supper. He asked for a list of the dishes and their individual prices, but the staff gave only a lump‑sum receipt. This shows why many people want to see item prices.

Ng said his group ordered nine dishes and 12 bowls of porridge, including two steamed fish that cost S$20 and S$23. He only knew the price of those two fish dishes, so the total amount surprised him. When he asked again for a detailed receipt, the staff declined and printed only the S$180 total.

Ng thought about calling the police, but his friends convinced him not to. On social media, some commenters said customers have the right to know the price of each item, while others defended the restaurant’s pricing. The mixed reactions highlight the debate over price transparency.

The story reminds diners that they can ask for an itemized bill to check the calculation. If a venue refuses, customers can still speak up, ask friends for advice, or share their experience online.

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