Question 1

What does MP mean on a menu?

Accepted Answer

MP stands for Market Price. It means the restaurant will charge based on the current cost of the ingredient instead of listing a fixed price.

Question 2

Is MP always expensive at restaurants?

Accepted Answer

Not always. MP often applies to premium items like lobster or steak, which can be pricey, but sometimes it just reflects seasonal ingredients that may be reasonably priced.

Question 3

Can I ask the server how much MP dishes cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes! It’s perfectly normal to ask your server for the current market price before ordering. They’ll be happy to tell you.

Question 4

Why don’t restaurants list the actual price instead of MP?

Accepted Answer

Because the cost of certain ingredients (like seafood or specialty cuts of meat) can change daily or weekly. Using MP keeps the menu flexible and ensures the restaurant can offer fresh, high-quality items without constantly reprinting menus.