G ordon Ramsay’s 20 per cent service charge has sparked a fierce backlash – with Independent readers voicing frustration at how expensive, and confusing, eating out in the UK has become.

The eye-watering charge was introduced on Ramsay’s Lucky Cat New Year’s Eve menu, where customers were already paying £138 for a Japanese A5 sirloin or £50 for spiced lamb chops.

Responding to Victoria Richards’ piece on the spread of “American-style” tipping , many readers said so-called “discretionary” fees are anything but optional. They argued restaurants should simply build staff wages into menu prices, rather than adding percentages at the end – with some saying they now actively avoid venues that do.

Others took a more measured view, saying they are still happy to tip – but only when service genuinely warrants it, and with confidence the money reaches staff.

There was also sympathy for hospitality workers, reflecting points raised in Hannah Twiggs’ report on low pay, rising costs and how service fees have quietly…