When eating out in the United States, there is always the anticipation of being asked to provide a tip, and in most cases, the answer is often no. There is a false perception that tipping is not an American custom, but tipping is in fact, an inherent part of the restaurant industry in the U.S. regardless of the customer’s opinion.
In some countries, tipping has become a widely accepted and expected part of dining out, however, in the United States, many patrons are hesitant to gratuitously add to their bill, opting instead to pay the listed price.
Customarily, a restaurant’s tipping expectations may be based on a percentage of the total tab and, in some cases, range from anywhere between 15 to 20 percent for exceptional service. However, some restaurants will casually inform customers that gratuity is not expected, this often happens in smaller restaurants, or establishments that do not rely on tips as a form of income.
The idea of tipping is also highly varied in the minds of customers and often is a residual of North American culture and norms higher than other parts of the world. In addition, negative attitudes towards tipping can also be linked to the perception that workers will not benefit from the standard wages they receive and should financially rely on tips for their income.
However, it’s important to consider the individuals who are working in the hospitality industry and the additional value they bring to a restaurant. From serving food or drinks, offering advice on menu items, to offering a pleasant conversation, there are a myriad of ways in which hospitality staff play an integral role in the dining experience.
Whether or not you feel so inclined to tip, it’s necessary to consider the various ways in which wait staff contribute to the success of a restaurant, and the sense of dignity and respect they carry as a representation of the business.
In the end, whether you are opting to tip, or not, it is ultimately each customer’s choice as to how much to pay. Good luck!