Additional Coverage:
- 7 Tipping Mistakes Waiters and Baristas Wish You’d Stop Making (financebuzz.com)
Tipping customs have shifted over time, but generally, leaving 15% to 20% for sit-down restaurant service remains the norm. When ordering drinks at a bar, it’s customary to add $1 to $2 per drink as a tip.
While keeping track of these amounts might feel like a hassle, tips are a crucial part of many food service workers’ income. Unlike salaried employees, servers and bartenders depend heavily on your gratuity to make ends meet.
If you want to maintain a positive relationship with your server as you dine out more often, here are seven common tipping mistakes to avoid:
1. Tipping on a discounted bill
If you use a coupon that cuts your $50 meal in half, don’t calculate your tip on the reduced price. The server’s effort stays the same regardless of discounts, so tip based on the full, pre-discount amount.
2. Neglecting to tip on drinks
Bartenders do more than just pour your drink-they manage orders and handle the crowd all night. While tipping on drinks may be less than a full meal tip, $1 to $2 per beverage is considered standard.
3. Leaving loose change as a tip
Most servers prefer cash bills or tips added to your card rather than a handful of coins. Loose change can be cumbersome and inconvenient to handle, so make tipping as smooth as possible.
4. Penalizing servers for things out of their control
Slow kitchen service, unavailable menu items, or frustrating restaurant policies aren’t the server’s fault. They work hard to make your experience enjoyable despite these issues, so don’t reduce their tip over problems beyond their control.
5. Skipping tips on takeout orders
Even though takeout doesn’t involve traditional table service, the staff who prepare and package your order rely on tips too. Leaving around 15% is a kind way to acknowledge their effort.
6. Limiting tips to just 15% for good service
While 15% is generally acceptable, consider tipping closer to 20% if your server provides excellent service. It’s a meaningful way to show appreciation.
7. Only tipping at sit-down restaurants
Counter workers at delis, baristas at coffee shops, and other food service employees often depend on tips just as much as servers do. A tip of about 20% for good service is appropriate in these settings as well.
Bottom line:
To tip generously and fairly, calculate your gratuity based on the full bill amount before discounts but after tax.
Always leave at least 15%, with 20% for exceptional service. Remember to tip for extra drinks and takeout orders.
If something goes wrong with your meal, bring it to your server’s attention but don’t penalize their tip-many issues are out of their hands, and tips help reduce their financial stress.
Smart money moves for everyone
Regardless of your current financial situation, there are ways to improve your money management and build wealth:
- Increase your income: Consider side gigs or part-time opportunities that fit around your schedule to boost your earnings.
- Grow your savings: Time and compound interest are powerful tools-start with a clear financial plan and, if possible, seek professional advice to work toward early retirement.
- Seize opportunities: Take advantage of discounts, benefits, and cost-saving measures wherever possible, like shopping around for better car insurance rates. Also, be mindful of common money traps that quietly erode your budget.
With thoughtful tipping habits and smart financial choices, you can support those who serve you while strengthening your own financial future.
Read More About This Story:
- 7 Tipping Mistakes Waiters and Baristas Wish You’d Stop Making (financebuzz.com)