That abbreviation on your menu could cost you more than you expect—here’s what to know before you order
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Dining out is one of life’s simple pleasures—a chance to relax, enjoy good food, and share time with loved ones.
But for some diners, a small menu abbreviation has led to a big surprise when the bill arrives.
Terms like “MKT” or “MP” might seem harmless, but they can signal prices much higher than expected.
One recent case in North Carolina brought this issue into the spotlight after a trio was shocked by a $159 dinner tab.
It’s a timely reminder to ask questions before you order.
Aribella Menold and her sisters went out to dinner at Moonrakers, a restaurant in North Carolina, expecting a fun, relaxing evening.
But when the check came, they were stunned: $159.14 for three people.
The main surprise? The 12 oz New York strip steaks they ordered were priced at $52 each, though the menu only listed “MKT”—short for “market price.”
They’d assumed the price would be closer to $25–$30.
Add in a $28 salad with an $11 grilled chicken upcharge, a $10 grilled cheese, and even a 3% credit card surcharge, and the total quickly added up.
Their reaction was shared in a lighthearted video online, and it quickly picked up attention from other diners who had been caught off guard by the same menu term.
When restaurants list “MKT” or “MP” on the menu, it means the price of that dish can change depending on current ingredient costs.
It’s especially common with items like steak, lobster, oysters, or seafood, which can fluctuate significantly in price based on supply, demand, or even the weather.
Rather than constantly reprinting menus, restaurants use “market price” as a placeholder.
But the burden falls on the diner to ask, “How much is it today?”
Not everyone knows to ask—and many are too shy to bring it up.
While some online commenters thought $52 for a steak was fair, others were surprised by the $28 Caesar salad, $10 grilled cheese, and extra charges that weren’t clearly explained.
The bigger issue? Sticker shock.
It’s not always about whether the prices are justified—it’s about being informed before making your order.
Source: TikTok / @aribella_menold.
You don’t need to skip your night out—just be prepared. Here are a few ways to avoid an unpleasant surprise:
Many readers have noticed that dining out feels more expensive lately.
Between inflation, supply chain issues, and rising wages, even simple meals can add up.
While that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy a good dinner, it helps to go in with your eyes open—and your questions ready.
Fortunately for the Menold sisters, the story had a happy twist.
Their grandfather ended up covering the tab, turning what could’ve been a frustrating evening into a funny family memory.
Read next: Exposed! Find out which restaurant chains are ruining your dining experience with poor service
Have you ever been surprised by a restaurant bill? Do you have your own tips for navigating menu mysteries—or a funny story to share? Join the conversation and help fellow readers dine out with confidence and clarity.
But for some diners, a small menu abbreviation has led to a big surprise when the bill arrives.
Terms like “MKT” or “MP” might seem harmless, but they can signal prices much higher than expected.
One recent case in North Carolina brought this issue into the spotlight after a trio was shocked by a $159 dinner tab.
It’s a timely reminder to ask questions before you order.
When a night out turns into sticker shock—always check for surprise charges on your receipt. Image Source: Pexels / Photo By: Kaboompics.com.
When “MKT” means more than expected
Aribella Menold and her sisters went out to dinner at Moonrakers, a restaurant in North Carolina, expecting a fun, relaxing evening.
But when the check came, they were stunned: $159.14 for three people.
The main surprise? The 12 oz New York strip steaks they ordered were priced at $52 each, though the menu only listed “MKT”—short for “market price.”
They’d assumed the price would be closer to $25–$30.
Add in a $28 salad with an $11 grilled chicken upcharge, a $10 grilled cheese, and even a 3% credit card surcharge, and the total quickly added up.
Their reaction was shared in a lighthearted video online, and it quickly picked up attention from other diners who had been caught off guard by the same menu term.
Also read: Big changes hit a longtime restaurant favorite—what fans need to know
What does “market price” really mean?
When restaurants list “MKT” or “MP” on the menu, it means the price of that dish can change depending on current ingredient costs.
It’s especially common with items like steak, lobster, oysters, or seafood, which can fluctuate significantly in price based on supply, demand, or even the weather.
Rather than constantly reprinting menus, restaurants use “market price” as a placeholder.
But the burden falls on the diner to ask, “How much is it today?”
Also read: Step back in time: The oldest restaurant in every US State
Why it can catch diners off guard
Not everyone knows to ask—and many are too shy to bring it up.
While some online commenters thought $52 for a steak was fair, others were surprised by the $28 Caesar salad, $10 grilled cheese, and extra charges that weren’t clearly explained.
The bigger issue? Sticker shock.
It’s not always about whether the prices are justified—it’s about being informed before making your order.
Source: TikTok / @aribella_menold.
Also read: Dining out just got more complicated—what to know about new restaurant surcharges
How to avoid menu surprises
You don’t need to skip your night out—just be prepared. Here are a few ways to avoid an unpleasant surprise:
- Ask about “MKT” items: If you see “MKT” or “MP” on a menu, it’s perfectly okay to ask your server for the current price.
- Check for surcharges: Some restaurants add fees for using a credit card or include automatic gratuity—especially with larger parties.
- Watch out for upcharges: Adding proteins to a salad or swapping sides might come with a cost. Ask ahead if you’re unsure.
- Split pricey items: If you’re curious about a high-end dish, consider sharing it with someone at your table.
- Review the check before you pay: Take a moment to glance over the bill. It’s easy to miss small charges or billing errors.
Also read: Restaurant insiders reveal: Are you making this dining mistake that servers secretly hate?
Are restaurant prices getting higher?
Many readers have noticed that dining out feels more expensive lately.
Between inflation, supply chain issues, and rising wages, even simple meals can add up.
While that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t enjoy a good dinner, it helps to go in with your eyes open—and your questions ready.
Fortunately for the Menold sisters, the story had a happy twist.
Their grandfather ended up covering the tab, turning what could’ve been a frustrating evening into a funny family memory.
Read next: Exposed! Find out which restaurant chains are ruining your dining experience with poor service
Have you ever been surprised by a restaurant bill? Do you have your own tips for navigating menu mysteries—or a funny story to share? Join the conversation and help fellow readers dine out with confidence and clarity.
