What is a reasonable corkage fee?
So when is enough, enough? Nepenthe winemaker Alex Trescowthick thinks it fair and reasonable for restaurants to charge $10 – $15 per your own bottle. “If the corkage charge is less than that essentially the operators are subsidising the cost of bringing that bottle of wine into the business,” he said.
What are standard corkage fees?
Naturally corkage fees vary from wedding venue to wedding venue. Some venues charge per head but most will charge per bottle opened on site. On average the fee will be £12.00-£15.00 per bottle of wine, £15.00-£20.00 per bottle of Cava or Prosecco and £20.00-£35.00 per bottle of champagne.
Are corkage fees worth it?
Corkage is the fee that restaurants charge customers who bring their own wine to a restaurant. If you sell wine, you know that it’s highly profitable for your restaurant, and it’s not unreasonable to charge a corkage fee to make up for lost profits if you’re going to allow diners to bring their own.
How can corkage fees be avoided?
Occasionally, a bar or restaurant might charge a corking fee for providing their own wine as a means of raising their bottom line or covering their wine service costs. If bringing in your own bottle, some restaurants waive the cork fee if you also purchase a bottle of their wine.
Why is corkage so expensive?
Usually, the more expensive a restaurant, the more expensive the corkage fee. High-end restaurants offer an exceptional level of service and wine-related amenities, which is why they can charge a higher corkage fee than your favorite neighborhood takeout spot.
Is it OK to bring your own wine to a restaurant?
It is illegal for a minor to drink liquor in a BYO restaurant (unless authorised by their accompanying parent / guardian). The maximum penalty is $2,200.
Is corkage per bottle or person?
It may vary from a charge per person (regardless of whether they drink the wine or not) or per bottle. With rates varying from $1.50 per person to as high as $50 per bottle, it’s important that you ask about corkage rates when you make the reservation at the restaurant.
Can you bring your own bottle of champagne to a restaurant?
While most restaurants do not allow the practice, there is no statutory provision prohibiting it, according to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Admittedly, bringing wine to a restaurant is an unusual practice.
Why do people bring their own wine to restaurants?
There are valid reasons for bringing your own wine to a restaurant: you’ve been saving a special bottle; the restaurant only offers BYOB (bring your own bottle); or it may serve great food, but it has a lackluster drink list. BYOB is a courtesy restaurants offer, not an obligation.
Can you bring your own wine to Carrabba’s?
Specifically, Carrabba’s Italian Grill (part of the Outback chain group) has a $0 corkage fee. Grand Lux Cafe (higher end of Cheesecake Factory) charged a $5 corkage fee. The glassware, while not crystal, was still large size cab/bordeaux glasses that were quite acceptable for the quality of wine one would bring.
What is the purpose of a corkage fee?
Charging a corkage fee allows restaurants to give wine enthusiasts the option to bring their own bottle without undercutting the expenses they’re incurring.