A cover charge is an entrance fee sometimes charged at bars, nightclubs, or restaurants
. It is a fixed amount added to the bill at a nightclub or restaurant, in addition to the cost of food and drink
. The charge is typically a few US dollars or equivalent
. Although the charge is often said to be for bread, butter, olives, etc. taken to the table, it is payable whether or not they are eaten
. The cover charge is used to pay for the entertainment, such as a band or DJ, and to cover some of the costs of the event, such as paying the entertainer, waitstaff, rent, power, water, food, and alcohol bills
