However, if someone leaves without paying for their meal, the restaurant may sue the customer for breach of contract. The customer may also be charged with theft if the amount owed is over a certain amount.
In Alberta, the threshold amount for theft is $5,000.
This means that if a customer leaves without paying for a meal that is less than $5,000, the restaurant may not be able to press charges.
If the waitress believes the customer is not going to pay, they can take some steps to reduce their potential liability, which may or may not include calling the police.
Ultimately, it is the restaurant's responsibility to ensure that customers pay for their meals.