var json_comments = new Array("

$\"user-pic\"$

Burgandy

October 31, 2008 5:54 PM

Moderate | Flag for review

So people ask for water at the drive thru?

7 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 1, 2008 5:06 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Burgandy: I ask for water all the time in the drive thru. in the last year, the mcd's near me charges me 10 cents to get a water INSTEAD of a coke. I don't want to drink sodas anymore b/c i get horrible heartburn from them. :)

I've argued w/ management about it to no avail. i know it's only TEN cents, but ..if i got a soda, they wouldn't charge me a thing. The same cup that im' being charged for is being used, and i think i'm SAVING them money by not getting a soda. But they argue they have to charge me for the cup. that doesn't make any damn sense to me.

$\"user-pic\"$

xip

October 31, 2008 11:25 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Burgandy:
I ask for water at the drive through all the time. But I never order water by itself. I get food too. If the problem is people going through and ordering only water, they could make a rule to address that situation specifically. I think it may be more motivated by profits... Drinks have the highest markup of anything a fast food restaurant sells. A small drink usually costs you at least $1, but it only costs the restaurant 5 cents or so.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 9:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Burgandy: Yep...but some McD are human about it..heck there's one in Deltona, FL that has a sign on the drive thru that says \"We will be more than happy to provide you with free water. However, please note that it must be ordered at the speaker\"

or something along those lines...basically saying we're not dicks and we'll be happy to give you free H2O, but you need to place an order since they have the automated filler things.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:11 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Burgandy: If I have my dog with me I'll ask for a cup of water in addition to my meal. However, if people are abusing the free water then I think management should say something to those people - NOT post a sign saying no water cups available!

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:19 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Burgandy: actually yes. people are kind of jerks about this actually. you get a car full of teenagers asking for things like four large cups of water when your line is already 20 cars long during the bar run.

$\"user-pic\"$

Lepoth

November 1, 2008 1:04 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@katylostherart: If they want to wait in a long line just for water, let 'em.

$\"user-pic\"$

mugsywwiii

November 1, 2008 2:40 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Lepoth:
They're not waiting in a long line just for water. They're waiting in a long line hoping they'll get someone else's food instead of their water. Most restaurants don't ring up tap water in their register, because they don't charge anything. So the kids order water, it doesn't get rung up, and when they pull up to the window the \"next\" order actually belongs to the guy behind them. They're hoping the cashier will forget about their water and give them that guy's order.

$\"user-pic\"$

November 5, 2008 9:36 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@mugsywwiii: Right, but don't you have to, you know, pay them before they hand you the food? not sure how they'd be getting anything for free...

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 8:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@katylostherart: I would think the teenages would be the exception rather than the rule. It doesn't cost the company very much to give me a cup of water with my meal I'm already paying for. I think they are just being cheap.

$\"user-pic\"$

gStein_*|bringing starpipe back|*

November 1, 2008 4:18 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@darkjedi26: wouldn't a better solution be to charge some small fee, like $0.25, if you aren't ordering anything at all?

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 8:57 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@darkjedi26: no actually when i was working fast food the asshole teenagers coming through asking for water were the rule as far as people just asking for water. the especially jerky ones came through repeatedly in the same night and depending who the shift manager was we couldn't just tell them to get lost.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

conn88h

October 31, 2008 5:56 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Unless I'm mistaken, certain jurisdictions have laws that restaurants/other food outlets must provide tap water to any patron if requested. I guess this isn't a universal law...

11 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

March 8, 2009 8:23 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

So you are informed the universal law is if the restaurant sells alcohol then they must give out water out as a courtesy. McDonalds in the US do not sell alcoholic beverages so they are not obligated to give it out

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:58 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h: It is the drive thru. Not inside the restaurant. It makes perfect since not to waste time filling water cups for people in a drive thru. Inside they hand you a cup and it costs them no time when you ask for water. In the drive through its as much work as a normal drink. If the employee has to back up the whole line and do as much work to get you that water as a paid item, it stands to reason that they ban the practice.

$\"user-pic\"$

Burgandy

October 31, 2008 7:15 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate_guy: If they don't go into the building (just going through the drive thru) they should absolutely be able to charge for the bottled water with the excuse of \"water cups are available inside only blah blah blah...\" or that they have a drinking fountain inside.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:31 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h:
In Alabama, if you dont order anything they have to give you the water for free. Same context as restrooms; they have to available for use to anyone, not just patrons.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:25 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h: I've never heard of that before. But then again I've only ever lived in cold, northern states (Minnesota, Illinois, New York).

It makes sense for states in hotter climates (Arizona, California, Texas, et al).

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:21 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h: it makes sense in desert states. if you're that desperate for water go to a bathroom and drink from the sink. i've seen places that charge a quarter for water because they give the cup. it's hard to tell who's just doing it to be a smart ass.

$\"user-pic\"$

Kishi

October 31, 2008 6:11 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h: Yeah, depends on the location. That's Arizona state law, and for obvious good reason.

$\"user-pic\"$

lauy

November 1, 2008 3:44 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I've lived in AZ most of my life and heard this for years. However, one day while bored at work, I searched the AZ statutes and found nothing to substantiate this supposed law. If anyone could provide the relevant statute(s) it would end years of curiousity!

$\"user-pic\"$

TGT

October 31, 2008 6:26 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Kishi: It's law in MD, DC, and PA as well. Charging fair value for disposable cups is allowed.

$\"user-pic\"$

brenton

October 31, 2008 6:02 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@conn88h: I was under the same impression. I know in Texas, they have to provide it.

$\"user-pic\"$

Canino

October 31, 2008 6:41 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@brenton: Citation needed, please...I've never heard of or seen this supposed law and I've lived in Texas for 40 years.

$\"user-pic\"$

stacye

October 31, 2008 7:04 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Canino: I think you'll find your answer here: [www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us]

@katylostherart: According to the law cited above (and this is for Texas, I'm not sure about other states), a drinking reservoir must be established 75 ft away from a privy (or bathroom).

$\"user-pic\"$

rbcat

November 1, 2008 3:41 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@stacye: Whoops, you read the law backward. 341.014(c) Texas HSC reads, in part:

A privy may not be constructed within 75 feet of a drinking water well or of a human habitation, other than a habitation to which the privy is appurtenant, without approval by the local health authority or the board.

That doesn't mean that water must be provided, just that, if a source of water exists, the bathroom must be 75 feet from it unless the property is a residence or the owner receives approval for a variance.

In the research I've done, there's nothing in Texas law providing for water for public consumption from places of business. That's not to say that such a law doesn't exist at the city level, but there's no statewide requirement.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 10:03 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@stacye: @Canino: You can think that, but as stacye pointed out earlier it is not

$\"user-pic\"$

Canino

October 31, 2008 11:38 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@chadbailey: Did you read any of that page? It doesn't say anything of the sort on it. There is nothing on that page saying anyone has to give anyone else free anything. Feel free to go through it - I did before I replied.

$\"user-pic\"$

November 1, 2008 4:08 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Canino: It's implied:

Sec. 341.033. PROTECTION OF PUBLIC WATER SUPPLIES. (a) A person may not furnish drinking water to the public for a charge unless the production, processing, treatment, and distribution are at all times under the supervision of a water supply system operator holding a license issued by the commission under Chapter 37, Water Code.

They can't charge for water unless it's being drawn, processed, and bottled by a licensed operator. It doesn't say they can't charge for the cup, though.

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

November 1, 2008 7:17 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@godlyfrog: You are reading that wrong. It doesn't say \"drinking water is free\" at all.

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

October 31, 2008 11:26 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@chadbailey: Yeah, and as Canino pointed out, that page doesn't say anything of the sort.

$\"user-pic\"$

Canino

October 31, 2008 7:21 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@stacye: Thank you for that link. I was right. There is nothing in those statutes saying a restaurant in Texas must provide water to anyone.

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

October 31, 2008 7:38 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Canino: Does anyone have any reference to the alleged \"you're required to give free water to anyone that uses your drive-through\" law?

$\"user-pic\"$

Canino

October 31, 2008 7:58 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@edosan: I think it's an urban legend.

$\"user-pic\"$

Ein2015

November 4, 2008 3:36 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Canino: [www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us] Sec. 341.068 and 341.069

$\"user-pic\"$

November 10, 2008 8:13 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Ein2015: \"In this section:

341.068 seems to be about restroom construction not public water

(1) \"Facilities where the public congregates\" means sports and entertainment arenas, stadiums, community and convention halls, specialty event centers, and amusement facilities. The term does not include .... restaurants ...

341.069 is about access to restrooms.

Neither section has anything about drinking water.

You would be better off making an argument that in the hot souther state the culture and tradition is that water is free for the asking. That surely is my experience.

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

November 7, 2008 7:55 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Ein2015: Did you just pick those sections at random or something? They say nothing about having to supply drinking water.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 5:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

What if I bring my own cup?

3 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

stacye

October 31, 2008 7:11 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@AMetamorphosis: According to
CHAPTER 341. MINIMUM STANDARDS OF SANITATION AND HEALTH PROTECTION MEASURES (in Texas), they have to serve it to you out of a \"sanitary container.\" I guess if they didn't think it was sanitary, then they could refuse to serve it to you out of your own drinking cup.

$\"user-pic\"$

MyPetFly

October 31, 2008 7:06 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@AMetamorphosis:

What if I bring two girls and a cup?

$\"user-pic\"$

Dooley

October 31, 2008 9:14 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

ugh

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

sir_pantsalot

October 31, 2008 6:02 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

If you get a combo meal and you want bottled water instead of a coke do they charge you extra? I would think that the few cents for the sugar in a cup they give you costs less than bottled water. If everyone asks for bottled water with their combo would they lose money?

7 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

mugsywwiii

November 1, 2008 2:46 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@sir_pantsalot: The cost of the syrup in a fountain soda is a little over a penny an ounce. What do the combo meals come with, a 32 oz soda? ~30 cents wholesale for a bottle of water sounds about right. Probably more if it's Coke or Pepsi's bottled tap water.

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 7, 2008 8:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Not quite, all. I own a fountain machine for personal use. A 5-gallon BIB of syrup is ~$50 (from a distributor - the restaurants aren't getting it much cheaper than this), which is ~8 cents per ounce. The correct ratio of syrup to cabonated water is 5:1 for most drinks. A 16 oz drink (assuming 16 ounces of drink, not 3 ounces of liquid and a cup full of ice) will contain almost 3 oz of syrup at a cost of about 25c. Plus the cost of the water, ice, cup, lid, and straw, not to mention the CO2, and dispensing equipment.

Is a 16oz drink worth $2? Not even close. But they're not making as much as everyone seems to think.

$\"user-pic\"$

MrEvil

October 31, 2008 9:03 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@sir_pantsalot: Even factoring in the syrup, the bottled water still costs more. Soda fountains in restaurants have concentrated syrup that is blended with carbonated tap water. Concession stands that aren't near a potable water source get the syrup that's already mixed with the appropriate amount of water and then carbonated.

I forgot what the ratio of syrup to water is, but it's very little. THere's only a few mL of syrup in a 32oz cup of soda. I think some have said the ice probably cost more than the coke did.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 10:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@MrEvil: It's more than that-about 10:1 I think. It's still insanely cheap though.

$\"user-pic\"$

Veeber

October 31, 2008 7:00 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@sir_pantsalot: Bottled water probably still costs significantly more to the restaurant than fountain sodas. I would imagine that they would lose a lot more money.

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 8:02 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Veeber: I don't think \"lose\" is the right word.

They might not make as much but I don't think they would lose anything regardless of how many people ordered bottled water.

$\"user-pic\"$

Megladon

October 31, 2008 6:20 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@sir_pantsalot:
Just like anything that doesnt come standard, its likly consiered an \"upgrade\" and you will be charged more for the water then the coke or whatever would have come with it. Mcdonalds whole game is the \"upsell\" so I dont see why this would be any different for them.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

corinthos

October 31, 2008 6:05 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Probably some rouge manager who will get in trouble for it eventually. A Wendy's near me tried that I called the 800 number comments line and told them about it. Never seen that sign again.

Like ten years ago I worked at a McDonalds for like 2 months. People would go through the drive thru and order just a water.

4 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

ludwigk

October 31, 2008 6:57 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@corinthos: When people would just order the water from the drive thru, did you give it to them? Did they think that McD's is some sort of charity?

$\"user-pic\"$

corinthos

November 1, 2008 12:25 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@ludwigk: Management said we'd have to give it to them but only a small.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@ludwigk:
I used to work at an Arby's location where water was free if it was ordered with a purchase. Ya know, a Large roast beef sandwich and a cup of water (up to medium was free, large was 10 cents).

But if we had a group of teenagers come through ordering 4 large waters, we'd charge them 45 cents for each water. 9 times out of 10, they'd drive off screaming as they passed the window.

$\"user-pic\"$

VigilanteKitteh

October 31, 2008 6:09 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@corinthos: lol, rouge manager. Yeah, those people ordering a glass of water throght the drive thru would definitely make him/her red in the face!

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

SiddhimaAmythaon

October 31, 2008 6:10 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I know this is illegal in Arizona and I think in California.

5 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 24, 2008 5:50 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@SiddhimaAmythaon: It is true about legality but then I've turned in businesses that charge extra to use a credit card (they will lose visa or is mastercard ability). Supposedly not able to do so, they get away with it until people rat them out.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@SiddhimaAmythaon: Drive thru. Most likely that law does not apply. And if it did, they could cover themselves by telling you to come inside if you need free water.

$\"user-pic\"$

grumpyguru

October 31, 2008 9:22 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate_guy: @SiddhimaAmythaon:

I'm pretty sure it is in california. If you make a purchase, they have to provide water free of charge. If you don't they can only charge you for the cost of the cup. Or something like that.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:34 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@SiddhimaAmythaon: I see stuff like this quite a bit in the East Bay area. Especially in malls...

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:40 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@XianZhuXuande: Yeah, but it doesn't regularly get 110+ in the East Bay like it does here in Phoenix. You CANNOT refuse someone water. You MAY be able to sell them a minute amount for the cup, but even then you could possibly get into some serious legal trouble if you didn't give them water. It canb ecome a health hazard.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

downwithmonstercable

October 31, 2008 6:12 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

This is probably a single franchisee doing this. I doubt it's a corporate thing.

Also, as others have mentioned, I think it is a law to provide water when requested. It's a health thing.

6 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:40 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@downwithmonstercable: Fairly obvious its just a single Mickey D's thats doing this to me. They just ran out of water cups. 10 bucks says when they get more back in stock, it will be back to normal.

$\"user-pic\"$

downwithmonstercable

October 31, 2008 10:17 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@graffiksguru: Let's hope so. If it's just a shortage of cups, they don't deserve this negative attention.

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 6:27 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@downwithmonstercable: Most of the McDonalds stores you see are just that. A single franchisee doing it once. I'm not being turned down for water, or charged for sauce, but my $1 menu is shorter then other people's because the guy that owns all the franchises in the area is a cheap ass.

No doubt as others pointed out they'll get rebuffed by either corporate, the city, or the state at some point.

$\"user-pic\"$

Joeyjojo

October 31, 2008 8:31 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I dunno, I've complained to McDs corporate and if the complaint is with a franchise, they basically say \"not our store, not our problem...\"

$\"user-pic\"$

downwithmonstercable

October 31, 2008 6:39 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@tande04: I have noticed at the McDonald's by my house that they charge for sauce if you don't order a sauce-related item, or if you want extra sauce. Compared to jack in the Box, where if you ask for sauce they hand you like 80 packs.

Not that I'm a fast food expert or anything.......

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 7:29 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@downwithmonstercable: Right, there was a consumerist article like that the other day that listed out the amounts of sauce you'd get with any given chicken selection. Something like 1 for a four pack, 2 for a six pack, etc. Anything above that would be a charge.

I get three different types of sauce everytime I get nuggets (and its usually multiple packs of the same sauce). Hot mustard, buffalo, and ranch. I can never decide between hot mustard and buffalo (and if you get buffalo its a given that you have to dip it in ranch) and I've never gotten charged or told I've got to cut back one sauce for my 4 pack. So its not a call from up high telling all the franchises that they have to limit sauce.

Each of the stories is just a diffrent way that the individual francisee is going to deal with the overall rise in costs. Some will cut sauce, some will cut water cups, some like the cheap ass that runs the McDs here will only offer a double cheese burger on the value menu which I'm sure he'll happily replace with the \"McDouble\" when it goes wide and make his money off the lack of a $1 fry, drink or chicken sandwich (oh spicey chicken how I miss you :( )

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@downwithmonstercable: Agreed about the single franchise thing. If it were corporate (which again, I don't think it is) the signage would be more professional looking. That sign looks like it was whipped up in 30 seconds on Word.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

I love the Power Glove. It's so bad.

October 31, 2008 6:16 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Almost as bad as when the local gas station charges you for a cup of ice, even when you bring your own cup!

2 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

mugsywwiii

November 1, 2008 2:47 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Custodial_Ninja:
Gas stations sell bagged ice, so why would you expect them to give you some for free just because it came from the soda machine?

$\"user-pic\"$

ShariC

November 1, 2008 4:22 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Custodial_Ninja: Ice isn't actually free. It does take power to make it and keep it. Also, all businesses and individuals have to pay for water access. I'm guessing that gas stations that charge you do it mainly to discourage abuse.

","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

AretinaPittheus

October 31, 2008 6:22 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Maybe it's because of the monopoly game, no free game pieces!

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Corporate-Shill

October 31, 2008 6:23 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Taken out of context?

For example a local drivethru was only serving canned soda's and bottle water because the water main serving their location had been cut. Only affected that one restaurant.

5 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

HalLaius

October 31, 2008 6:36 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate-Shill:

Unlikely, most restaurants would have to close if there was no potable water, if there's no water to drink, there's none to wash with.

$\"user-pic\"$

Corporate-Shill

October 31, 2008 11:14 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

My comment was not complete. Water main was cut and repaired.... EPA requires a Boil Water Notice to be issued until the water tests come back from the lab. The restaurant can continue functioning.... Boil Water.

$\"user-pic\"$

West Coast Secessionist

October 31, 2008 8:15 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@HalLaius: Or to go into the soda fountain for making soda.

$\"user-pic\"$

SabreDC

October 31, 2008 9:45 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@West Coast Secessionist: That isn't tap water. It's a huge tank of carbonated water.

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

October 31, 2008 11:42 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@SabreDC: Carbonated water is made by taking tap water and mixing it with CO2. You don't buy \"carbonated water.\"

$\"user-pic\"$

xip

October 31, 2008 11:27 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

As far as I knew, there was a large tank of CO2 and a water filter that they run tap water through.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:32 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate-Shill:
Cant operate without running water for washing. Cant operate without hot water either.

$\"user-pic\"$

Corporate-Shill

October 31, 2008 11:13 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

My comment was not complete. Water main was cut and repaired.... EPA requires a Boil Water Notice to be issued until the water tests come back from the lab. The restaurant can continue functioning.... Boil Water.

","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Trick

October 31, 2008 6:30 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

It's probably to stop the .0009% who get the free kids cup and then fill it up with 7-up.

Not that I would ever do so. I hate 7-up.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 6:32 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I'd keep a hose next to the drive-in window anyone that ordered a water would certainly get some.

2 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

West Coast Secessionist

October 31, 2008 8:15 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@testsicles: LOL.

$\"user-pic\"$

Consumerist-Moderator-Roz

October 31, 2008 8:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@West Coast Secessionist: Your comments are normally okay, but please keep the comment quality up. For details, see the comment code.

","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

mefinney

October 31, 2008 6:35 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

This was at my local McDonald's. The cashier said it was a \"business decision.\"

","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Dawnrazor

October 31, 2008 6:43 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Well...
As with most things in our modern culture, the concept of \"common sense\" is out the window!

As someone who has paid my dues working fast-food in the past, I sympathize with the angst created between 0100-0300 when all the drunks clog the drive-thru asking for free water and nothing more.

However, why piss-off all the customers actually ordering food or other menu items and SPENDING MONEY

","

$\"user-pic\"$

banmojo

October 31, 2008 6:44 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

If you're still eating at McDs with any regularity, you deserve to have to buy water. That shit'll kill you faster than cigarettes. Now that may be a slight exaggeration, but DUDES, stop eating that crap!!!

3 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

Corporate-Shill

October 31, 2008 11:16 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I like that crap (as you call it) and I eat at McD's pretty darn regularily. The McD's crap is no worse than the crap from any other fast food establishment.

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 3, 2008 4:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate-Shill: \"I like that crap (as you call it) and I eat at McD's pretty darn regularily.\"And its already started to affect your spelling. McDonalds is EVIL. They put sugar in EVERYTHING including their bloody salads. banmojo had it right - stop eating that crap!

$\"user-pic\"$

mrrish

November 1, 2008 8:28 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Corporate-Shill:

oh come on...its at least a LITTLE bit worse.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

quail

October 31, 2008 6:48 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Anyway to digg this story down? We all know there's fast food franchises out there that nickel and dime their customers to death already. The recession is just bringing out a few more of them.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Dawnrazor

October 31, 2008 6:48 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

by then charging them for a cup of tap water, particularly given that these customers always got their water \"free\" before. (Sorry for the premature post submit ejaculation above :) ).

Seems to me the perfect compromise would be to charge for water if no other items ordered but continue to provide complimentary ice-water for those ordering other items.

1 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

xip

October 31, 2008 11:27 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I fully agree.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Applekid

October 31, 2008 6:55 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Yes, but can I get cheese on that bottled water?

2 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

frodo_35

November 9, 2008 3:54 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

They would have no problem charging you .50 and slapping cheese on the water.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:21 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Or better yet, \"make it bacon\" from a few years back.

\"Say make it bacon to add bacon to any menu item for 59¢ more!\"

My worst idea from that was the bacon shake or McFlurry.

","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

pb5000

October 31, 2008 7:00 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I was upgraded to a large sized big mac meal the other day at my local mcdonalds, without asking for it they threw the extra 60 cents on my tab and gave me the larger drink and fries. I didn't notice until I got my food and probably wouldn't have complained about it anyway. I haven't been back to see if that's becoming a common trend.

No signs for bottled water though.

","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:08 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Maybe they're trying to thwart the \"ghetto lemonade\" trick (if you've worked in fast food at all, you know what I'm talking about). In which case, they just need to charge a quarter per lemon juice packet unless you're ordering iced tea. Then water can continue to be free.

3 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 7:31 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Ubik2501: Isn't there also a ghetto tomato soup trick too though? You can't start charging for ketchup.

$\"user-pic\"$

bobpence

October 31, 2008 8:29 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@tande04: They can and will, when they would do much better to simply teach their employees that there are quantities of ketchup packets between \"zero\" and \"a heaping handful.\" I got tired of having either none if I didn't ask or a pile if I asked for ketchup, so I specified two packets the other day. The drive-through cashier was dumbfounded, as if she couldn't imagine someone who wanted ketchup doing without 10 or 20 packets.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:45 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@tande04: Could be. But I've never seen ghetto tomato soup, whereas when I worked at a Dunkin' Donuts several years ago I had ghetto lemonade \"customers\" on a daily basis.

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 7:56 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@Ubik2501: See its cold here. So people don't need free lemonade as much as free soup.

","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:22 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I worked at a restaurant that was across the street from the bus transfer station. Needless to say we had the same policy.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:24 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Anyone sees this in California, call the local County Health Department IMMEDIATELY and report the location, time/date and, if possible, the name of the person refusing to provide the water on request.

The key is that you must ask for the water, and they must provide a minimum of eight ounces in a disposable cup at no charge. The only exception to this is if the business has a standing water fountain; technically, however, they do have to provide a disposable cup on request even so.

They cannot claim to \"only provide bottled water\" for \"health/sanitation reasons\".

They cannot require you to make a purchase to get water, either.

1 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

October 31, 2008 7:32 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@HPCommando: ...and do you have a reference for that?

","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 7:41 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

It's illegal in Quebec to force anyone to pay for a glass of water. They have to provide the service if it's asked for. A reasonable law I might add.

4 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

November 7, 2008 7:59 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@dialing_wand: Do you have a reference for what you're saying?

$\"user-pic\"$

November 28, 2008 11:41 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@edosan: Actually I don't and I can't find any at the moment so for the time being I retract my comment.

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

October 31, 2008 7:54 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

A glass of water is different than a cup of water. A glass can be reused with little loss (time it takes the worker to clean it), a cup is a pure loss of profit.

I worked in the food service in PA for a number of years. It was illegal for us to not provide a GLASS of water when asked. However, we were free to charge if they wanted a To-Go cup of water. One can argue that McDonald's doesn't use glassware for distribution of liquids. We didn't either - we kept some on hand. The older generation always asked for tap water with their meals.

The laws are going to differ from state to state. It'd be ridiculous to make one that requires a pure loss on the companies part. Want water, go in to the building and drink a glass of free tap water. The restaurant typically isn't responsible for providing one with water to leave their premises.

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 10:05 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@SarojaKristi: What if I drop your glass?

","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

jwm1314

October 31, 2008 8:04 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Cup of water with food purchase at discression of management. Tada, done. Prevents the car full of 5 drunk guys getting just water and keeps us who want a burger with water fine.

1 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

tande04

October 31, 2008 8:11 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

@jwm1314: Yep, never even crossed my mind when I saw that sign that it was refering to people that only get water in the drive through.
I generally only get water too. Sometimes I'll even buy it bottled of my own accord but I'm pretty sure if a McDs told me I could only get it bottled I'd just go across the street to whatever fast food place is there which would be more then happy to give me a cup of water with my meal.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 8:15 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I always ask for ice water when I want tap water. That way, if someone tries to upsell me to bottled water, I have an instant argument as to why I don't want the bottled water -- there's no ice in it!

","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Joeyjojo

October 31, 2008 8:28 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I remember being at a McDs once ordering a few things for the kids. A women with a stoller walked in and asked for a cup of a water for her kid. It was quite hot out and she had walked quite a ways to get to the bus stop.

They absolutely refused without purchase.

I bought her a soda and a water.

I can't believe the cost of handing out water exceeds the loss of goodwill.

Related gripe: Movie theaters that only sell bottled water and/or, if lucky, hand you a 2oz paper cup to fill at the water fountain.

Seriously? You can't afford tap water with that $10 ticket I just purchased?

","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 9:00 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

What a shame. i walked into a McDonald's last summer, thirsty. i asked for water, i figured i'd be charged for it & that was fine, but the guy at the register gave me a cup and said there wasn't a charge. That resulted in my having quite a bit of goodwill towards McDonald's, made the company seem a little more human, a little less corporate. If I had been charged for the water, I wouldn't have felt wronged or anything, but I also wouldn't have walked away with positive feelings about McDonald's.

","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 9:18 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I know in some low income places, homeless people are constantly using the bathroom at Mc Donalds, asking for water etc. I'm sure this isn't a chain-wide policy.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 9:36 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

During the unfortunate times I must eat here, I get 2 double cheeseburgers plain and a water. If I am ever denied water, I will leave.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

October 31, 2008 9:45 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

They forgot to add that they have discussed the water problem with their customers, and have found that charging for bottled water is what is best for everyone.

","","","","","","","","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

kwsventures

October 31, 2008 11:37 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

There is no FREE lunch at McDonalds. You will have to wait for Obama to \"spread the wealth\" to get your handouts.

","","","","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

bbbco

November 1, 2008 5:47 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Wow...cracking down on the drive-thru too?
I know I learned the hard way and got in a little scuffle with an employee summer of 2007 when I wanted to order a water with my meal after being outside in the heat most of the day (I was ordering inside). She insisted that it was new McDonald's policy to charge you for a $1 Tea at least since they had too many people ordering water and then getting something else from a self-serve dispenser. That was the most ridiculous (and not surprising) thing I had heard all day!

So, ok, I can understand why a policy like that is made for inside customers when they choose to have a self dispenser set up. But reading this post, that is ridiculous! Do they really think people are going to order a water, come inside and steal Coke from the self server dispenser?

Oh wait, that's the world we live in. Everyone tries to find a loophole somewhere.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

evotech

November 1, 2008 6:11 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Whats the problem? Why not just go with a \"If you dont buy anything, you cant get fucking water, but if you do buy something, you can have water\"

This is no good?

","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 1, 2008 7:31 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

They stopped this over two years ago here in New Zealand. It won't come back.

","","","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Caveat

November 1, 2008 5:30 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I complained about the same regarding McDonald's in Reno, Nevada. Here is the response:

Thank you for your comments regarding prices at your local McDonald's.

It's important to know that approximately 85 percent of our restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent business people known as franchise owners. Each franchise owner determines his or her restaurant's prices by taking our recommendations into consideration, as well as their unique operating costs. This is why prices may vary from one McDonald's restaurant to another. Also franchise owners make decisions regarding charging for condiments and water.

We are sorry for any dissatisfaction you may be feeling as a result of prices at a McDonald's restaurant. Overall, McDonald's Corporation works very hard with our suppliers, research and development, and internal departments to consistently offer a broad menu that can be offered at a good value in our restaurants.

We appreciate your feedback and will share it with the appropriate people at McDonald's. Regarding your local McDonald's pricing, we encourage you to share your feedback with the restaurant Manager. We are sure the franchise owner would be interested in you comments.

Thank you again for contacting McDonald's. We appreciate your business and hope to have the opportunity of serving you in the future.
(name withheld to protect the poor person working there)
McDonald's Customer Response Center

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Caveat

November 1, 2008 5:34 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

In Reno they charge 25 cents for tap water.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

edosan

November 1, 2008 7:20 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I do agree it's pretty bad customer service (\"customer\" defined as \"someone that is actually paying for good and services\") to refuse someone water, but nobody has proven it's illegal yet.

I'm still of the opinion that business have the right to do whatever they want to do if is legal, and \"I heard about this from some guy that you have to give me water when I come through the drive through\" isn't legally binding so I fail to see a problem here.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

mbz32190

November 2, 2008 12:01 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

If someone is going through the drive thru just for free water (without purchasing anything else), that to me deserves this sign. Of course if you are buying food, they should provide a small cup of water.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

sodden

November 2, 2008 2:06 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Never heard of that ghetto lemonade trick, but then I didn't know mcdonalds offered lemon juice packets.

Around here, the free water cups are extremely small. Not even 4 oz. 20 years ago when I worked in fast food, I remember we'd use the 8 oz cups for free water.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 2, 2008 3:36 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

I was a manager at McDonald's I would love to explain this. At the franchised restaurant I worked at #77 we wouldn't give out water either. for 3 reasons. 1 The customer expects a free cup of water, and the owner had no reason to give out the cups and lids that cost about 3-4 cents. 2. Seeing how this restaurant I worked at was in the inner city people would come back in from drive thru and fill it up with soda (I've seen it.) and if in dining in they would go straight to the soda fountain and fill up. 3. We sold bottled water tor $1 and made about $18 profit off a case of water (before payroll and expenses). It really pisses people off when you don't give them water. I was always a nice guy and I would give out a small water if they were polite reminding them I never gave it to them ;) . About the monopoly game assumption a small cup or child's cup doesn't have the pieces this is simply a way to make more money off the bottled water and not loose it on the cups of water.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

SerafinoDarnoldo

November 2, 2008 4:03 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@tande04: I know this is an American blog, but for want of comparison, in Australia, we virtually always have to pay extra for tomato sauce (ketchup). Not only at McDonalds, but pretty much everywhere else.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

bobjr94

November 2, 2008 4:04 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

It its only so people dont get a bunch of waters for extra Monopoly game pieces.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 2, 2008 4:22 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Of course this is a decision by the individual manager/franchisee. Haven't you ever noticed that McDonalds goes through great expense to provide uniform signage - not 48pt. Times New Roman on a sheet of copier paper stuck in a binder sleeve scotch taped to the order pedestal.

I can believe that someone is actually questioning whether this is a corporate decision or not.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 2, 2008 12:48 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

My local McDs (Scituate, RI) has a sign up now saying that cups cost money, and that they'll charge the price for a regular fountain drink for a water, or they can sell a bottled water. It's definitely a decision made by a local owner though. Had it been corporate, I would think the sign would have been professionally designed.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

GoVegan

November 2, 2008 3:04 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

After reading this, I am predicting that pay toilets will be making a comeback soon.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 2, 2008 3:09 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

In the DC McDonalds, they have so many homeless people getting free cups they charge the price of a soda - they don't offer free cups - including if you are buying some other foods from them. I vote with my feet...

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 2, 2008 4:44 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Taco bell has always charged for water if you went through the drive though and wanted a water they would charge you the price of a soda

","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 2, 2008 9:36 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I ordered something at the drive through in a Colorado Taco Bell the other day, and they refused to give me a glass of ice water, and tried to get me to buy some bottled water.

It's the drive through, it's not like I am going to steal soda from the fountain later or something...

","

$\"user-pic\"$

jonadair

November 2, 2008 10:53 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I saw a similar sign at a local McDonalds this week, except they're now charging 10 cents for a cup of water. Fine with me.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 2, 2008 11:26 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

In the South Bronx, it is common practice for Burger King to upsize kid's meals without asking. None of the teenaged parents ever notice. It makes me sick to see the ignorant being taken advantage of. After all, they're spending my tax dollars. They also won't let you have free water anymore.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 3, 2008 3:55 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

This is illegal in Arizona for sure. A Carl's Jr restaurant in Tucson, AZ near my high school stopped giving out free water cups per the managers direct (and disrepectful) orders. He threw in a little discrimination as he handed them out to older patrons. Those damn kids steal soda!

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 3, 2008 12:42 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

That seems to be the trend. I always drink water with my meals when I eat out. Last week when we went to Ruby Tuesday for lunch we were told that the following week tap water would no longer be an option. They will only sale bottled water.

I don't drink the water just to save money. I don't want the flavor in my drink to obscure the flavors of my meal. Guess I'll continue to order water, but it makes me mad when they often charge more for water than a softdrink.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 3, 2008 6:03 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Here's an idea: if you want water, buy some, at McDonalds or of the zillion places the sell it, and stop bitching that a restaurant won't give it to you for free. I'm constantly amazed at the sense of entitlement I see here, as if private restaurants are a public utility. How can you possibly argue against the proposition of paying for every good or service rendered by a private entity? I suppose that demanding payment for water at a restaurant is now considered \"selfishness\"? What's next, price controls on bottled water?

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 3, 2008 6:14 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I know this is a crazy idea and it will probably get flamed but since we are their revenue generators maybe we should charge our own surcharges for opening the door to the restaurant, rolling our window down at the drive through throwing our own trash away, etc... I would assume that since it is a transaction between two parties and the product is what I am purchasing anything else would be their responsibility, as in, someone should bring the food to my table. They pay people to work there, take orders, clean up, I would like their attention too, or maybe a credit applied when I perform the service on my own. Just thoughts..... Companies need to stop sticking it to customers because in the end we have the right to buy something somewhere else.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

ELC

November 3, 2008 7:01 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Doing that here locally. The problem is that people are asking for a cup of water and then going to the drink machines and getting something else. I'm okay with that rule I guess, but it doesn't make sense for drive-thru orders.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 5, 2008 2:35 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

I know the reason for the bottled water, If so many people 50% or more didn't pour out the water and get soda then McDonald's wouldn't have to make a decision to cut the water cups. It cost the company several 1000 dollars per month in lost products, Could Your business continue to hand out free cups.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 5, 2008 3:34 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

i talked to someone who tod e that they were in a mcdonalds the other day, and they said that while they were there, ey saw 12 guys come in, all ordered off of the dollar menu and get a free water. then they proceeded to go around the counter, dump te water, and get soda. they ripped off 12 dollars worth of drinks. no wonder they are putting their foot down. that stuff costs money. imagine how many people really do that. unfortunatly, the bad people ruin it for the rest, just like everything else.

","

$\"user-pic\"$

layton59

November 5, 2008 6:11 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

The Subway restaurants nationwide have ALWAYS charged $.25 or so for the water cup. I was told it was an inventory issue. Subway really knows how to SQUEEZE its customers. At least the burger chains have a Dollar menu. I think those that order a free water and then refill it with soda should be shown the door. I also think people in the grocery who leave unwanted cold items on the warm shelves should be thrown out of the store. Shopping at Wal-Mart, I just found a 1/2 gallon chocolate milk sitting in the canned goods aisle.

","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

gmss0205

November 7, 2008 8:51 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

I asked for a cup for water last week and got charge 15 cents. First time I was ever charged for water.

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

November 8, 2008 7:10 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

they still give me free water in jacksonville, fl. i just cant say no to 2 for $2 mcgriddles!

","

$\"user-pic\"$

jayw7

November 8, 2008 9:13 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

Where i work we are supposed to charge 25 cents for water, not for the water but for the cup. It's free if it's for here or if you bring your own cup. makes sense to me. water is free but why should you get the cup for free?

2 replies

$\"user-pic\"$

November 9, 2008 3:22 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

@jayw7: Where exactly is water \"free\" at?

$\"user-pic\"$

frodo_35

November 9, 2008 4:20 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

my rain barrel

","

$\"user-pic\"$

ChainsawFacelift

November 9, 2008 1:53 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Ok, your option is to go home and get a glass of water, go to the store and pay $1+ for a bottle, or buckle the hell down and pay 10 cents for a cup, or a buck for a water. You want convenience, so you generally have to pay for it. You can buy a pound of potatoes and deep fry them for cheaper than a basket of fries, but is still isn't convenient to do so, is anyone understanding me, am I just rambling?

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 9, 2008 3:50 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Our local McDonalds tried this a while back. The workers were very apologetic saying it was a decision from above. Then several large parties ordered and then walked out after finding about the water deal. It wasn't too long and water was again free. As for the freeloaders who just ask for water and nothing else, they have to live with themselves.

","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

November 10, 2008 6:25 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Although it DOES seem super shady for any restaurant to do that (and I know that it is in fact illegal in the state of Indiana) water is the most expensive beverage for a restaurant to serve. They pay for the cups, water, ice cubes, person to serve it, etc...and get no return on it. It's really no wonder that the corporate companies that own \"sit-down\" restaurants are always breathing down their servers' necks to suggestively sell drinks.

","","","","

$\"user-pic\"$

Anonymous

December 5, 2008 2:40 AM

Moderate |Flag for review

Everyone should be allowed a small glass of cold water free. Some people have to take medicine with their meals and I like the water after I drink their coffee, because it is too strong. I also like some water after I eat their egg biscuit in the morning. I have almost stopped going to McDonalds because they dont give you free water anymore. I am not going to be forced to buy pop and choke down my food, so they are losing money in the long run. They need to give people a small glass of tap water if they request it. What if someone was really CHOKING ON FOOD at Mc Don. Would they ask you to buy a drink on the spot because they have no cups?Penny pincher, dollar spender !!!! Stupid

","","

$\"user-pic\"$

JoJoB

November 23, 2009 5:32 PM

Moderate |Flag for review

This happened to us this morning. My family of 3 went in for breakfast and coffee. I asked for water cups and was denied. After I picked myself up off the floor, I pointed out that I had just spend $8.00 for coffee and didn't think it was too much to ask for water cups. I was told they \"don't have a way to ring it up\". Umm, then just give me the stupid water cups, moron!

My husband asked for a manager and got the same run-around. I never would have eaten there if I wasn't so exhausted, but certainly never will again.

Oh, and the coffee SUCKED.

");