re: Do you say "Check please" at restaurants? Why?

The French do the same thing.

L’addition - the bill/check

La Facture - the bill

Both can be used interchangeably but l’addition would be more commonly used in a restaurant.

Why is the Bill Called a Check in Restaurants?
The term “check” in reference to the final bill in eateries is steeped in history. The etymology stems from centuries-old practices, intertwining banking, accounting, and dining industries.

The Historical Intersection of Banking and Dining
Early establishments used a system of chits or tokens to keep track of patrons’ consumption. These physical tokens acted as ‘checks’ against fraud or overcharging.
Banking systems adopted the terminology, and as commercial banking rose, so did the term’s popularity in dining spaces.
Medieval Europe’s Influence
Medieval European taverns and inns played a part in the terminology. Patrons received a ‘checkerboard’ upon entry, which tracked their consumption. Hence, the word “check” rooted itself in the dining vocabulary.
The Evolution of Restaurant Billing Systems
The transition from physical tokens to paper billing didn’t change the terminology. The paper bill essentially acted as a ‘check’ against the items consumed.
Popularity in the New World
As settlers moved to America, they carried traditions and terminologies. The word “check” for the bill resonated with the populace and remained prevalent.
Cultural Adoptions and Variations
While the term “check” is popular in the U.S., terms like “bill” are more common in regions like the U.K. Cultural exchanges and migrations further solidified the usage.
Modern-Day Reinforcements
Hollywood and global media play a part in the continued usage. TV shows and movies set in American eateries often showcase characters asking for the “check”, further popularizing the term.
The Psychological Impact of ‘Checking’
The term also resonates psychologically. Asking for a ‘check’ means verifying the items and ensuring there’s no discrepancy.
The Role of Modern Tech
Modern-day tech and POS systems still label the end-of-meal receipt as a ‘check’, further ingraining the term in our dining experiences.
The Term’s Endurance in Colloquialisms
Phrases like “pick up the check” or “foot the check” keep the terminology alive in day-to-day conversations.
A Nod to Tradition in a Fast-Evolving Industry
Even as dining evolves with tech-driven solutions, certain traditions, including the term ‘check’, endure as a nod to history.

Conclusion
Understanding the term “check” in the context of dining is a delicious blend of history, culture, and language. The next time you ask for the check after a meal, you’ll not only be concluding a delightful dining experience but also participating in a centuries-old tradition. So, here’s to more insightful dining moments, one check at a time!

I always loudly proclaim "die rechnung bitte...". I give a 'hearts out to you" salute as I do this and stomp my left foot very loudly. It is usually not well received but at times, in central and eastern European themed restaurants, it has been very warmly received. The worst reception tends to be in Delicatessens, mostly those in the NE but also in SE Florida and around SoCal.....I do not suggest anyone try to emulate this behavior.....

I slap the waitresse's arse and ask her if she wants the tip now or later..

I snap my fingers at her.

I just wave my arm like I’m calling for a fair catch and when she looks my way I make a giant air check mark.

I like to get the attention of my waiter/waitress when it’s clear they are very involved and concerned with another table.



Jk that’s my MIL.

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Do you say "Check please" at restaurants?

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Yes

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Why?

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I like to be polite.

Because "Check please" is more socially acceptable than "Bill bitch."