[redwitch]

I'm a Cokehead. I hate the taste of Pepsi and I rarely drink anything but Coca-Cola. I nearly always have Coke on me. If I go to a restaurant and they serve Pepsi, I explain I have my own drink but will happily pay a charge for a glass of ice or even the full price of the beverage, provided I can drink what I want. I've been doing this for years. Occasionally, it has been issue and have been told I have to drink what is on the menu. I thank the server or manager and leave.

When you turn a glass of water into something else such as lemonade or iced tea, yes, you are cheating the restaurant. You're getting a beverage free. I've seen people add lemon and sugar to a glass of water. They really don't see that they are taking something they shouldn't since the water, lemon and sweetener are all on the table to be used. But they're not drinking water, they're drinking lemonade (which the restaurant usually serves). Adding your own Crystal Light just takes it up another level. Be honest and advise the server you are adding to the water. Most of the time, it will be a non-issue or a minimal charge.

As to sharing a meal and not expecting to be charged extra -- no comment.