Indian creator’s hilarious Italian dining surprise goes viral — after being asked to pay for plates

When pasta meets culture shock — an Indian creator’s hilarious ‘coperto’ moment in Italy has travellers laughing worldwide.

When in Italy… don’t forget to budget for the plates!

Travel often brings unexpected adventures — but sometimes, those surprises come with the restaurant bill. Recently, an Indian content creator’s Italian dining experience left the internet in splits after she was charged not for dessert or wine, but for the plates she used.

In a now-viral Instagram Reel shared by @thatindianchick_, the influencer shared her amusing encounter at a local Italian restaurant — an experience that perfectly captures how cultural quirks can turn even a meal into a memorable story.

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A post shared by Vagmita Singh (@thatindianchick_)

The Confusing “Coperto” Moment

It all began when the creator sat down for what she thought would be a simple, delicious Italian meal. Everything was going smoothly until the waiter brought the bill. There it was — an unfamiliar charge labeled “coperto.”

Puzzled, she asked the waiter what it meant. The explanation? Coperto isn’t a scam — it’s an age-old Italian custom. The term literally means “cover,” referring to a table setting fee that typically includes the use of plates, cutlery, bread, and water.

In her reel, she humorously remarked, “Coming here, I realised that eating in a restaurant in Italy is no less than a national-level exam!” Her light-hearted confusion resonated instantly with viewers, especially those who had faced similar cultural surprises abroad.

What Exactly Is “Coperto”?

For travellers new to Italy, the coperto charge can be surprising, but it’s a legitimate and widely accepted practice. Dating back centuries, coperto is essentially a small dining fee — usually between €1 and €3 per person — that covers the basic setup at your table.

It’s not a hidden cost either; most restaurants list it on their menu or mention it at the bottom of the bill. While tourists may find it odd to pay for tableware, locals see it as completely normal — a part of the traditional Italian dining experience.

So, the next time you’re savoring spaghetti in Rome or pizza in Naples, don’t be shocked if your bill includes a coperto. It’s all part of the Italian charm!

A Series of Funny Culture Shocks

The coperto incident wasn’t the only culture shock the creator faced during her Italian escapade. Her culinary adventures continued with more hilarious moments — like when she requested rum with hot water, an Indian-style home remedy for sore throats. The waitress looked utterly baffled and said she’d have to “check” if that was possible.

In another instance, when her friend asked for a drink without ice, the creator joked, “Don’t worry, I’ll just use my hand to take the ice out myself!” The clip captured the lighthearted cultural differences that often make travel so entertaining.

Why the Internet Can’t Stop Laughing

Her video quickly went viral, striking a chord with audiences worldwide. Viewers flooded the comments, sharing their own travel mishaps — from surprise service charges in France to “bread basket” fees in Spain.

While the reactions were full of laughter, the story also opened up conversations about cultural dining norms. What might seem strange to tourists is often a deeply rooted local tradition. Understanding these nuances not only helps travellers avoid awkward moments but also enriches their travel experience.

When in Rome… Expect the Unexpected

The viral reel reminds us that every country has its own rules at the table — and sometimes, those rules come with a side of comedy. Whether it’s learning about coperto in Italy, tipping etiquette in the U.S., or the no-tipping culture in Japan, food often becomes the most flavorful part of cultural discovery.

So, the next time you dine abroad, go in hungry, stay curious, and laugh through the surprises — because those ‘wait, what?’ moments are what make travel truly unforgettable.