Tipping is only nominally optional in the United States. Although it is technically voluntary, if you leave a restaurant without leaving a tip of between 15% and 25%, you will undoubtedly be pursued by a waiter who will demand to know why.
Tipping is the customary way of doing things in the United States. Most of the time, we don’t even consider it. It comes naturally to us. When the bill arrives, especially at restaurants, it’s just something we anticipate adding before paying the tab.
Of course, the United States’ tipping culture differs significantly from most other countries. Tipping is uncommon in several European countries. Due to the way the United States operates, tipping etiquette in the United States is an exception.
Why should I leave a tip?
A tip is a bonus for excellent service in Australia, where employees get a decent minimum wage. Paying extra on top of a restaurant bill may seem excessive, but when you consider that waitstaff (“servers”) in America get only a few dollars per hour, it makes sense.
In fact, under American federal law, the minimum wage for employees who also receive tips is only US$2.13 per hour, whereas it is US$7.25 for those who do not. Consider waitstaff as independent contractors who you hire to serve your table. When you sit down in a restaurant in the United States, you’re entering into a social contract with your server — you can’t use Australian norms.
In a restaurant, how much should I tip?
A standard tip of 15 to 20% of the bill (before sales tax) is expected, with 25% offered for exceptional service. In America, servers work hard for their money and are generally friendly, knowledgable, and willing to go above and beyond for their customers.
What if the service is unsatisfactory?
It is unusual to receive poor service, but it does occur. However, the service must be terrible if you don’t tip at all. Leaving only 10% indicates that the experience was unsatisfactory. If you genuinely believe your waiter or waitress does not deserve to get a tip for their services, the best line of action is to inform the restaurant manager of your decision. Your server will inquire as to why you left without tipping or providing an explanation.
Is it OK to tip if the restaurant has already included a gratuity in my bill?
Some restaurants will automatically add a gratuity if you’re dining with a large group or it’s a public holiday. If the bill says “gratuity included,” you don’t have to pay anything extra. You are entitled to a refund if you believe the restaurant’s gratuity is excessive.
What about a night out at a bar?
If you’re going to a bar, make sure you have a pocketful of dollar bills. Order and pay for your drink, then leave a dollar bill for the bartender on the bar — no need to put it in their hands. Even if you aren’t paying for the drink, give a customary tip if the bartender serves you a complimentary beer.
Is it necessary to tip for fast food or coffee taken away?
No, is the quick response. You don’t have to tip if you buy food or drinks over the counter, but if you want to, you can put a dollar in the always-present tip jar.
Should I tip anyone else?
Taxi drivers, hairdressers, beauty therapists, porters, and food delivery people can all expect to get a tip. Back-seat monitors in New York cabs allow you to choose a default tipping amount of up to 30%. Generally, 15% is OK, and if you’re paying cash, add a few more dollars. The industry guideline for hairdressers, manicurists, and beauty therapists is 15 to 20%, plus a few dollars for the apprentice who washes your hair. If you order food to be delivered, add 10% to your total (or more if they had to schlep upstairs or battle inclement weather). Porters, often known as bellhops, should be paid $1 for each bag carried or $2 for heavy loads.
Few extra tipping tips:
Cash reigns supreme.
The majority of people prefer monetary tips. It’s cash you’ll be able to take home at the end of your shift. If you pay with a card, you’ll have to wait a few days for your tips, which will go via your manager first. It is very appreciated, regardless of how you tip. If you don’t have cash, don’t forget to tip.
Dollar bills are gold.
If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure you have some cash on hand. As previously stated, slipping a few coins into the hands of the valet to assist you is simple and casual. The unwritten rule at bars is a greenback ($1) for a drink.
Where should you not tip?
Now that you know how tip-obsessed Americans are, you might wonder if there are any places where you don’t have to tip. Fast food restaurants and coffee shops with counter service do not require tipping (but don’t worry, there will be a tip jar just in case). That is all there is to it. Good luck with your tipping!
