cover charge

noun

1. a fee, in addition to the cost of food and drink, charged by a restaurant, nightclub, etc., for entertainment.

cover charge

noun

1. a sum of money charged in a restaurant for each individual customer in addition to the cost of food and drink

Word History and Origins

Origin of cover charge¹

An Americanism dating back to 1920–25

Example Sentences

As owner of the new Kookaburra Lounge comedy venue, Cazorla is intent on maximizing comfort — of performers and audience members — above exorbitant club cover charges.

From Los Angeles Times

The club, which used to be open every day, now opens only three days a week with limited hours and implemented a new cover charge, Hoeschen said.

From Los Angeles Times

Seeing the cover charge reduced “showed that we do have a say in how this club operates, and we’re hoping to see a lot more steps in a better direction,” Lillith says.

From Los Angeles Times

The acquisition of an elite quarterback is the cover charge for sustained NFL success, and they aced that part when they drafted and developed Mahomes.

From Washington Post

The last night of the year doesn’t have to mean steep cover charges and open bar “deals”: All events are free unless otherwise noted.

From Washington Post