Ask for the price list before ordering; do not agree to “enjoy first, settle later”
Chinese entertainment venues must display prices and provide a list. Surprise drink bills commonly follow ordering without seeing it. Photograph the list when entering a private room, then obtain an order confirmation. For a disputed bill, call China's 12315 consumer line on the spot.
What it takes
Free. Asking directly can feel awkward.
What you may gain
Regulations require clearly marked entertainment-service and goods prices and presentation of a price list, and prohibit forcing or deceiving customers into services or purchases. Price-law violations are subject to enforcement. The author associates most inflated-drink-bill disputes with absent lists and later oral pricing.
Context & considerations
Paper or electronic lists are fine; photograph them and obtain the final ordered-items list. Ask before ordering suggested special cocktails or fruit platters. For a dispute, call 12315 before paying; the author notes that recovering money afterward can create a harder evidentiary task.
Research & references
State Council of China (2006). Entertainment Venue Management Regulations, Order No. 458, Articles 29 and 53. http://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/2008-03/28/content_6297.htm