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by kalupa 968 days ago
it still is wild that they take the card away from the table when tap payments exist so extensively, even in the USA.

Here in Canada, the servers often will bring the card reader at the same time as they bring over the bill, because the assumption is you're likely paying with a card, either credit or debit, so why not save the extra trips entirely?

3 comments

I actually prefer it - I hate having the waiter hovering over me while i decide the tip + I can continue a conversation/finalize my bill at my leisure if my card is simply returned awaiting my signature.
In Europe they look the other way so you can type your PIN without them looking over your shoulder. Waiters are quite professional about this aspect.
Yes, it is far less intrusive!
It seems to be rolling out gradually. In Seattle I'd say about a quarter of restaurants bring card readers to the table and it's ticking up over time.
Canadian banks send you the reader for free, US banks make you pay. The cheapest option wins.