Singapore eatery criticized over alleged refusal to itemize $140 bill

A Singapore diner has taken to social media to criticize Heng Long Teochew Porridge, alleging that the eatery refused to provide an itemized breakdown of a S$180 (US$140) bill for a meal shared by 10 people.

In an Instagram post on Oct. 28, the diner, identified as Martin Ng, said he had requested a list of the dishes ordered and their individual prices but received only a receipt showing the total amount, AsiaOne reported.

"Charged $180 for a 10 pax supper, asked for itemized receipt, refused to provide, only gave a lump sum receipt. Avoid this place," Ng wrote.

Speaking to Shin Min Daily News, Ng said the group had ordered nine dishes and 12 bowls of porridge.

The dishes included two steamed fish, minced meat, braised pork, fish cakes and sweet and sour pork.

Ng said the group knew the prices of only the two fish dishes when ordering, which cost S$20 and S$23.

When Ng went to settle the bill, he was surprised by the total amount and requested a receipt showing the price of each dish.

"I just want to understand how the price is calculated," he said.

Staff declined and only printed a receipt showing the S$180 total.

Ng considered calling the police at the restaurant, but his friends persuaded him not to do so, Shin Min Daily News reported.

His post drew mixed reactions only, with some users defending the restaurant's pricing while others supported Ng's request for a detailed bill.

One commenter said they visited the eatery regularly, acknowledging that its food was more expensive than that of an economy rice stall but praising its taste.

Others, however, questioned the eatery's alleged refusal to disclose individual prices, Mothership reported.

"Not first time. Some other outlet also anyhow charge," one user commented.

Another said Ng's demand for the detailed prices is legitimate, writing: "Please break down the costs. Customers have the right to request to know how much per item costs correct?"