In most mid-range to upmarket restaurants, cafes and bars you will find that the prices quoted on the menus do not include the 15% VAT charge. This fact will almost always be stated on the menu if it is the case, so keep an eye out for it.
Sometimes, it will not be so clear. You may see a chalk board advertising “Phoenix beer: 60 Rupees” in large bright letters, only noticing the much smaller “VAT not included” when the barman asks you for 69 Rupees!
I found that budget restaurants and simple cafes tended to include the 15% VAT charge in their advertised prices.










