Fury as pub charges £2 surcharge to any pint ordered after 10pm

A popular in has sparked anger among customers by adding a £2 surcharge on drinks after 10pm.

in Soho introduced the extra charge, bringing some pints up to nearly £10. For example, a pint of Brewdog IPA now costs £9.40 after 10pm, compared to £7.40 during the day.

The change in pricing has frustrated many customers, who say it isn't clearly listed on the pub's main menu. Instead, there is reportedly a small notice at the end of the bar saying: "We operate a variable price list in this venue."

Other price hikes include Budweiser bottles, which increase from £6.05 to £8.05 after 10pm, and tonic water, which jumps from £2.15 to £3.15.

And, Scott Dixon, a consumer rights expert, said the approach could put customers off. "Pubs and venues ought to display clear pricing and notices so consumers can make an informed decision before they enter into a contract to buy drinks," he told . "They cannot simply post an A4 piece of paper in an obscured location."

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Mitchells & Butlers, the company that owns O'Neill's, said the policy follows a request from local police and the council to align prices with the late-night market and help with public order.

A spokesperson said the dynamic pricing policy "varies on a site-by-site basis" to reflect local conditions. The policy has reportedly been in place at the Wardour Street pub for two years.

The extra charge is part of a "dynamic pricing" model, which adjusts prices depending on time or demand. According to Mitchells & Butlers, it's not unusual in hospitality, with prices sometimes rising due to extra costs for door security or other services after peak hours.

However, the pub's decision has seen mixed reactions online. Some recent reviews have slammed the price increases, with one customer writing: "Look out for the 'dynamic pricing' - prices go up by £2 after 10pm." Another commented: "Surge pricing? You've gotta be kidding."

However, not all feedback has been negative. Some customers appreciated the pub's atmosphere and great service, with one review saying: "Absolutely amazing night! Great music, fantastic vibe, and top-notch service."

Westminster Council clarified that while it does not require businesses to adjust prices at certain times, it did ask venues to boost security measures after 10pm and use plastic glasses.

Allen Simpson, the deputy chief executive of UK Hospitality, also defended the idea of variable pricing, saying inflation has made it difficult for many venues to operate at pre-2019 rates.

Simpson added that rising costs mean businesses often need to charge more to remain viable, especially after late hours.