Up in arms over shonky service

The consumer people at Choice offer some advice:

Taste is subjective, so asserting your rights about unsatisfying food in restaurants can be tricky.  According to state fair trading laws, you have the right to a refund or remedy if the products or services do not meet reasonable expectations.  But if you think the food is too salty or sour, you have the right not to eat it and request a replacement.  Ask to speak to the manager immediately and explain why you think the food did not meet its reasonable standard.  You won't have a case if you polish off the meal that you claim is not up to scratch and refuse to pay.

If hygiene is the issue, such as being served uncooked chicken or mouldy bread, you can make a case for not paying for the dish and alert your local council or the food authorities.

The Sunday May 18 July 2010 p69