Splitting the Bill

Figuring out how to pay separately when dining with friends.

You
¿Nos trae la cuenta, por favor?
nohs TRAH-eh lah KWEHN-tah, pohr fah-BOHR?
Can you bring us the check, please?
'La cuenta' is the check or bill. In Latin America, the check is rarely brought until you ask for it — taking your time is normal.
Waiter
Claro. ¿Todo junto o por separado?
KLAH-roh. TOH-doh HOON-toh oh pohr seh-pah-RAH-doh?
Sure. All together or separate?
You
Por separado, por favor. Somos tres cuentas.
pohr seh-pah-RAH-doh, pohr fah-BOHR. SOH-mohs trehs KWEHN-tahs.
Separate, please. Three bills.
Splitting bills is common in cities but may be unusual in small towns. Some places may not be able to split easily.
Waiter
Sin problema. Aquí tienen las tres cuentas.
seen proh-BLEH-mah. ah-KEE TYEH-nehn lahs trehs KWEHN-tahs.
No problem. Here are the three bills.
You
Gracias. ¿La propina está incluida?
GRAH-syahs. lah proh-PEE-nah ehs-TAH een-kloo-EE-dah?
Thanks. Is the tip included?
In some countries like Colombia and Mexico, a 10% 'propina' may already be on the bill. Always check before adding more.