Problem: The check arrives, and while you had a salad, everyone else had steak. How do you split the bill?

Solution: First, if it’s just a few dollars’ difference, consider splitting the bill evenly. If you’re really in a money crunch — or the house wine you had doesn’t exactly compare with the three $100 bottles the rest of the group shared — just say up front, “We’re all paying for our own meals and drinks, right?”

Make it plain and simple. If it’s a large group, you can also ask your server for a separate check when you order. Most restaurants have software systems that can easily print multiple checks.

If you don’t get a separate check and one of the pricey wine drinkers moves to split the bill evenly, it’s OK to be pleasantly assertive, says Post: “Try, ‘Hey, guys, I figure $30 will cover my meal, glass of wine, tax, and tip. Can I throw that in and let you split the rest?’” Your message is clear (“I owe less”), but it’s not the least bit confrontational.