Dear Abby: I frequent a small local restaurant. The owner is also the server. I believe her husband (or son) is the chef. We’re on friendly terms, and I sometimes get a “free” dessert. When the bill arrives, I am asked on the receipt for a tip, which I have been leaving. But, lately, I feel I’m paying extra for my meal or paying for that “free” dessert — and then some. I mean, who am I tipping? It’s not like the server is a hired employee. I need to know, must I leave a tip? What is proper when it comes to tipping the owner who is also the server?
— Confounded in Florida…