Optional service charge added to restaurant bill...cheeky?

[wetlastfoor]

Went out for a meal with my friend on Saturday night.
It was her birthday so it was my treat.
Bill came to £70.00
Plus a £7.00 "optional service charge"
So altogether £77.00

Now am I wrong in thinking this shouldn't be on the bill? If you want to tip it's your choice..them adding this to the bill makes it awkward to ask for another bill with it removed.
They must know most people (me included ) wouldn't ask and have to explain why I want the service charge removed.

Aibu to think it's cheeky to put this on?

We visited London over the Summer, family of 4, was fairly shocked to encounter "optional" service charge would be added to the bill automatically in a few places. What added to our shock was that the restaurants seemed to be cashing in on the whole Covid experience. So the waiting staff were unable to produce a physical menu. Customers were expected to scan a QR code to see a menu, then place the order online. FFS, this is only the early 21st century, not everyone even has a phone, never mind a smartphone, not everyone wants to run down their phone battery. And, when you are out with family you don't want to be reaching for your phone as the default position. My own screen is tiny and I wasn't expecting to have to use my glasses. And, we were abroad and not wanting to be using roaming data. The tables were not properly clean. We walked out of 3 places and went for fast food instead. (Better service in McD's where they provide a big menu behind the counter and a really good self service option where you can easily customise your choices.)

So where would my optional service charge have gone in the restaurant - to the waiting staff who were loitering and chatting near the counter and would have only brought food and drinks to the table, not provide advice on the menu etc. Service should begin the moment you enter the restaurant. Service includes a clean table, set with cutlery, a person who can offer advice and suggestions and do it pleasantly. It's not my concern whether these young people are paid minimum wage, or more, but if I choose to tip it is based on the quality of service extended to me, you can't automatically include a service charge and expect the customer to be happy. One of my DC works part time in retail, just above minimum wage, and provides excellent customer service for no expectation of a tip.