Tipping?~cheap family of 5...

[Annabelleasb]

(April 5th -10th w/ DDP)~~~I don't want to walk out of a restaurant looking like "the cheap family of 5" so......what is an average tip weather it be ok, good, or excellent service. Honestly, I do take service into consideration but I'm certainly not going to leave a $40 tip. I was thinking more like $20-$25. (Except for Whispering Canyon, all are buffets)~Am I cheap???


ME DH DS~11 DD~7 DD~18 months :grouphug:

[Deb & Bill]

Disney considers 18% to be acceptable. If you spend $200, that would be $36 for a tip.

[just another guy]

15-20% of the bill, based on service is whats customary.

[Annabelleasb]

ok...thanks!! :thumbsup2

[Brian Noble]

Disney "suggests" a range of 18% to 20%. Miss Manners (http://books.google.com/books?id=FOodocaTLsMC&pg=PA763&lpg=PA763&dq=miss+manners+restaurant+tip+percent&source=web&ots=QftYNfTpW2&sig=adbsloWZ742Nraq7bINub2JPW4I)generally suggests a range of 15% to 20%, with higher amounts for nicer restaurants. Miss Manners also does not adhere to the custom of a lower tipping range for buffets or dinner shows.

[angelmav]

Disney "suggests" a range of 18% to 20%. Miss Manners (http://books.google.com/books?id=FOodocaTLsMC&pg=PA763&lpg=PA763&dq=miss+manners+restaurant+tip+percent&source=web&ots=QftYNfTpW2&sig=adbsloWZ742Nraq7bINub2JPW4I)generally suggests a range of 15% to 20%, with higher amounts for nicer restaurants. Miss Manners also does not adhere to the custom of a lower tipping range for buffets or dinner shows.

Miss Manners also advocates leaving 15% even if you have recieved bad service, so take that advice with whatever grain of salt that you may have handy. Really, tip what you feel is appropriate, dont go off of someones 'free advice' and let your conscious be your own guide.

[LexPlayer]

Disney "suggests" a range of 18% to 20%. Miss Manners (http://books.google.com/books?id=FOodocaTLsMC&pg=PA763&lpg=PA763&dq=miss+manners+restaurant+tip+percent&source=web&ots=QftYNfTpW2&sig=adbsloWZ742Nraq7bINub2JPW4I)generally suggests a range of 15% to 20%, with higher amounts for nicer restaurants. Miss Manners also does not adhere to the custom of a lower tipping range for buffets or dinner shows.

Emily Post, Good Housekeeping and tipping.org suggest 10% for buffets, although I haven't seen a specific amount for dinner theater.

[caroline1851]

I say tip whatever you feel the service deserves. I tip 15% typically. If service is great, then i go closer to 20%. If it's lousy, 10%. there's no way i'm giving 15% to someone who did a lousy job. A buffet? I guess i'll have to see what it's all about. They clear your plates, bring beverages, so their doing a lot of what you need, they're just not getting your food, so i guess 10-12%, is what i would leave.

[Deb & Bill]

But if you are using the DDE card, you will have 18% added to your bill. The DDP may be similar.

[VacationDad]

A buffet? I guess i'll have to see what it's all about. They clear your plates, bring beverages, so their doing a lot of what you need, they're just not getting your food, so i guess 10-12%, is what i would leave.


I'm not familiar with all the Disney World buffets, but I know the dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern is considered a "buffet", and you don't have to get up and get your own food. It is all brought out to your table. In this case I tip the normal 15-20%.

I agree with those general guidelines for "classic" buffets. If I am getting up to lug my own food (and my kids) back and forth, and the only thing we get is drinks and cleared plates, I will leave 10%. If I get drinks, but I am moving my empty plates to another table or stacking them myself on the corner of the table because nobody is coming to get them, then 5%.

Of course a pretty waitress and a good attitude can move that amount higher in both cases. ;)

[caroline1851]

Oh....definently if it's a "buffet" that they actually bring you the food, then i would def. pay the regular tip amount. Then, it's just like eating at a regular restaurant.

[praline3001]

Everywhere I have seen Disney says 18-20%
I am planning on that and making sure I budget for it.

Budget for tips? YIKES hahaha
But our family of 5 will be dining at Narcooses and that tip could run us 50-60 bucks :rotfl:

Same goes for a few other places we have picked..... tips are going to get pricey for us in the next 18 days :rotfl:

[just another guy]

I'm not familiar with all the Disney World buffets, but I know the dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern is considered a "buffet", and you don't have to get up and get your own food. It is all brought out to your table. In this case I tip the normal 15-20%.

I agree with those general guidelines for "classic" buffets. If I am getting up to lug my own food (and my kids) back and forth, and the only thing we get is drinks and cleared plates, I will leave 10%. If I get drinks, but I am moving my empty plates to another table or stacking them myself on the corner of the table because nobody is coming to get them, then 5%.

Disney suggest up to 20% for all types of restaurants, including buffets.

[caroline1851]

Everywhere I have seen Disney says 18-20%


I find that annoying though. I plan on tipping what i want to tip not what they say i should tip. I base it on service, that's it. simple.

[cymbaldiva]

I keep reading that Disney suggests a certain amount to tip - where is that written anyway? :confused3

[angelmav]

I'm not familiar with all the Disney World buffets, but I know the dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern is considered a "buffet", and you don't have to get up and get your own food. It is all brought out to your table. In this case I tip the normal 15-20%.

I agree with those general guidelines for "classic" buffets. If I am getting up to lug my own food (and my kids) back and forth, and the only thing we get is drinks and cleared plates, I will leave 10%. If I get drinks, but I am moving my empty plates to another table or stacking them myself on the corner of the table because nobody is coming to get them, then 5%.

Of course a pretty waitress and a good attitude can move that amount higher in both cases. ;)

You are a bit confused in your definition, LTT, Ohana, etc are NOT buffets, they are fixed menu served family style. All of the food, drinks etc are brought by the server, you just get whats on the menu. H & V, Chef Mickeys, etc are buffets where you get everything but your drinks. There isnt any 'classic' buffet, just buffet.

[lynninpa]

Disney restaurants are like any other restaurant. Whether you are in Disney or in your hometown, it is "suggested" you tip between 18% and 20% of the total bill for a "sit down" meal. Of course, it can be less for poorer service or more for great service.
My DH & I will be "the tippers" when our family dines all together in Disney this summer-all 17 of us. Not only will I take into consideration how our server is, I will also take into consideration how we are as customers! ;)

[angelmav]

Disney restaurants are like any other restaurant. Whether you are in Disney or in your hometown, it is "suggested" you tip between 18% and 20% of the total bill. Of course, it can be less for poorer service or more for great service.
My DH & I will be "the tippers" when our family dines all together at Disney this summer-all 17 of us. Not only will I take into consideration how our server is, I will also take into consideration how we are as customers! ;)

Most restaurants though dont give you a written account to the penny of how much 18% or 20% are like disney does. IMO I find that a bit crude and pushy myself. We have been over the tipping guidlines many times and there is plenty of literature for debating the percentage (and it doesnt always start at 18% but thats been beaten to death here already). I personally wish they would just tack on a service charge across the board and be done with it already.

[blondinkaya]

How much do you tip outside of Disney? Dh and I usually tip 15% (rounding up to the nearest dollar) for average service. If you get "average" (meaning nothing special, just ... average) service at WDW, why be compelled to tip more?

We're taking cash for tips and will be ignoring the suggested amounts on the bill and tip with how we feel the service merits. Outstanding will garner 20% (that's what we do elsewhere), average will get the server 15%, and terrible service will grant the server less. I don't think it's being cheap; it's just what we tip here at home, and I don't see why I should feel forced to tip based on Disney's recommendations.

[mom2my3kids]

Disney restaurants are like any other restaurant. Whether you are in Disney or in your hometown, it is "suggested" you tip between 18% and 20% of the total bill for a "sit down" meal. Of course, it can be less for poorer service or more for great service.
My DH & I will be "the tippers" when our family dines all together in Disney this summer-all 17 of us. Not only will I take into consideration how our server is, I will also take into consideration how we are as customers! ;)

Party's of 6 or more have a 18% Automatically included.

[lynninpa]

Party's of 6 or more have a 18% Automatically included.
That's true, mom2my3kids. I didn't think of that as I was posting as I was just trying to point out that when it comes to tipping, people need to also look at how they were as patrons. ;)

[VacationDad]

You are a bit confused in your definition, LTT, Ohana, etc are NOT buffets

That may be, but I got the definition here:

http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=87

NOTE: * Indicates buffet item and cost represents total cost of buffet.
Menu is subject to change.

Some people might interpret that to mean it is a buffet and not leave a regular tip.

[caroline1851]

How much do you tip outside of Disney? Dh and I usually tip 15% (rounding up to the nearest dollar) for average service. If you get "average" (meaning nothing special, just ... average) service at WDW, why be compelled to tip more?

We're taking cash for tips and will be ignoring the suggested amounts on the bill and tip with how we feel the service merits. Outstanding will garner 20% (that's what we do elsewhere), average will get the server 15%, and terrible service will grant the server less. I don't think it's being cheap; it's just what we tip here at home, and I don't see why I should feel forced to tip based on Disney's recommendations.

Exactly my thoughts...just worded better. :)

[Pumbaa_]

That may be, but I got the definition here:

http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=87

NOTE: * Indicates buffet item and cost represents total cost of buffet.
Menu is subject to change.

Some people might interpret that to mean it is a buffet and not leave a regular tip.

The starred note is on every menu on the DIS. You have to read the menu to determine if it is a buffet or not.

LTT and 'Ohana is considered family style, all you care to eat. The food is brought to your table by the server. Additional servings are available upon request.

Hope that helps,

[VacationDad]

The starred note is on every menu on the DIS. You have to read the menu to determine if it is a buffet or not.

LTT and 'Ohana is considered family style, all you care to eat. The food is brought to your table by the server. Additional servings are available upon request.

Hope that helps,

Yes thanks, that was my point:

Dinner (Updated: 10/06)
Entree/Main Course

Goofy's Liberate Your Appetite Adult Character Dinner - Guests ages 10 & over - Declaration Salad: tossed mixed greens, served with strawberry vinaigrette dressing. Patriot's Platter: roasted turkey breast, carved beef, and smoked pork loin, with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, herb bread stuffing, and Stouffer's macaroni & cheese. Dessert: Freshly prepared from the kitchen. Beverages: Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta Birch Beer, Hi-C Lemonade, Coffee, Milk (whole, 1%, low-fat or chocolate), Carnation hot cocoa, hot tea, and Nestea iced tea. - $27.99 *

[Califgirl]

I don't think it's being cheap; it's just what we tip here at home, and I don't see why I should feel forced to tip based on Disney's recommendations.

Disney is putting out guidelines because tipping is different in different areas of the country, and very different overseas. Resort areas, and metropolitan areas like NY and L.A. often have a higher customary tipping amount. Usually 20 -25%. Many rural or non resort areas have a lower amount perhaps 10 -15% as evidenced by some posts on this board. So Disney is trying to let their patrons know that the customary tip for their resort area is 18%. I see nothing wrong with that, It just helps you be an informed and polite visitor.
Now, if someone wants to say "Oh, who cares, I'll never see them again, I'm tipping 10% like I do at home." Then, so be it. But I could never do that.

[VacationDad]

Resort areas, and metropolitan areas like NY and L.A. often have a higher customary tipping amount. Usually 20 -25%. Many rural or non resort areas have a lower amount perhaps 10 -15% as evidenced by some posts on this board.


Well, at the danger of getting another tipping thread closed, that's baloney. I've eaten in plenty of city restaurants and 20-25% is not "usual". I've eaten in plenty of rural restaurants and 10% is not "usual". 15% has been the norm everywhere I have ever eaten. Most resort and city restaurants are overpriced to begin with so a 15% tip there will be higher than a 15% tip in a less expensive restaurant.

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.

[lynninpa]

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.

popcorn::

[DiszyDean]

Just putting this out there. I realize that tipping is a sensitive subject for some reason but tipping should always be a percentage of the total bill (minus tax). The government will automatically tax the servers based on the assumption that they made at least 10% tip on their total food sales.

A few think that leaving a "flat tip" is ok, not considering the total amount of the bill. For example, on a $300 bill, leaving $20 is ok. Afterall, its $20 for about an hours worth of work. However, they do not take into account that the government is going to tax the server as if they had made $30 worth of tips.

Also, I am not sure why a suggested or customary tip is so offensive to some people. If you want to just leave 10%, do it. No one is forcing a certain percentage of tip on you. Disney is just doing the math for you as the majority of guests will leave the customary 18% tip.

Also, even where the tip is included in the check due to party size or using your DDE, you can always have the tip removed/reduced by speaking to the manager. They basically cannot make you pay it. But you would need to speak directly to the manager to negotiate this. If you felt the service was legitimately lacking, I have never seen a case where the tip was not removed/reduced.

[DiszyDean]

Well, at the danger of getting another tipping thread closed, that's baloney. I've eaten in plenty of city restaurants and 20-25% is not "usual". I've eaten in plenty of rural restaurants and 10% is not "usual". 15% has been the norm everywhere I have ever eaten. Most resort and city restaurants are overpriced to begin with so a 15% tip there will be higher than a 15% tip in a less expensive restaurant.

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.

Actually, it is not baloney necessarily but it depends on where you are eating too. Typically, the higher-end establishments where the service should be expected to be great, the expected tip in a city like NY or LA is 20 - 25%.

If you are eating in a greasy spoon in New York, a 15% tip is probably sufficient.

[angelmav]

Actually, it is not baloney necessarily but it depends on where you are eating too. Typically, the higher-end establishments where the service should be expected to be great, the expected tip in a city like NY or LA is 20 - 25%.

If you are eating in a greasy spoon in New York, a 15% tip is probably sufficient.

Disney is putting it out there because it is a way to appease the Union who gave up the autograt from the dining plan. There not doing it to make it easier than doing the math. Still has nothing to do with the percentage, and BTW, the IRS taxes servers at 8%

[VacationDad]

Actually, it is not baloney necessarily but it depends on where you are eating too. Typically, the higher-end establishments where the service should be expected to be great, the expected tip in a city like NY or LA is 20 - 25%.

If you are eating in a greasy spoon in New York, a 15% tip is probably sufficient.


*sigh*

http://www.theinsider.com/nyc/survive/016tipp.htm

Waiter/Waitress - 15-20% of bill

[DiszyDean]

*sigh*

http://www.theinsider.com/nyc/survive/016tipp.htm

Waiter/Waitress - 15-20% of bill

As I said, that is probably correct for your average NYC eating establishment. I am talking about the higher-end places. No reason for the condescending *sigh*.

[Pumbaa_]

Threads discussing tipping tend to get closed because posters get heated on the topic and sometimes get a tad passionate on the topic:rolleyes1

Please remember the DIS guidelines when posting.

3. NO FIGHTING/SARCASM: While we'd like to think that a Disney fan site is always lighthearted, there are times when there are disagreements. Let's face it, there are certain topics that can transform any of us into a raging "Donald Duck." When you sense this is happening, we ask that you step away from the discussion before it escalates into a fight. Just like Mom always said about fighting, we don't care who started the argument and we don't want it on the DIS. (Okay, she didn't say the part about the DIS, but you know what we mean.) No attacking others and no sarcasm please. Either will result in an infraction.

Everyone (yes, everyone) is entitled to their opinion. You do not have to agree, but you do have to play nice.

thank you from all the mods,

[Elmo888]

How much do you tip outside of Disney? Dh and I usually tip 15% (rounding up to the nearest dollar) for average service. If you get "average" (meaning nothing special, just ... average) service at WDW, why be compelled to tip more?

We're taking cash for tips and will be ignoring the suggested amounts on the bill and tip with how we feel the service merits. Outstanding will garner 20% (that's what we do elsewhere), average will get the server 15%, and terrible service will grant the server less. I don't think it's being cheap; it's just what we tip here at home, and I don't see why I should feel forced to tip based on Disney's recommendations.

Amen, sista...we tip 15 - 20 percent based on service at home, and we will do the same at Disney.

[LSchrow]

Disney is putting out guidelines because tipping is different in different areas of the country, and very different overseas. Resort areas, and metropolitan areas like NY and L.A. often have a higher customary tipping amount. Usually 20 -25%. Many rural or non resort areas have a lower amount perhaps 10 -15% as evidenced by some posts on this board. So Disney is trying to let their patrons know that the customary tip for their resort area is 18%. I see nothing wrong with that, It just helps you be an informed and polite visitor.
Now, if someone wants to say "Oh, who cares, I'll never see them again, I'm tipping 10% like I do at home." Then, so be it. But I could never do that.

::yes::
& personally, i would rather forego an extra snack, etc & tip appropriately (added benefit is that my kids will retain how to be the forementioned "informed and polite vistor" long after they've forgotten that extra snack :thumbsup2 )

[Annabelleasb]

OH MY.........Quite a discussion I've started~why do people get so heated about tipping??? (small story)~~My husband has delivered pizza 1 day every other week for a close friends business (started out as a "favor"..11 yrs. later...) he usually gets an average of $3-4/delivery, nothing great, but hey he just delivers pizza's~some people will tip him $8-10 for the same service & he is shocked that he's tipped that much--he's just doing his job!!!--why do servers get offended when their not tipped "good" & why do some get offended when others only want to tip minimum? my point...their doing their job, if they expect more $$, working in the food industry is not the way to go--Anyway, thanks for all the tipping advice. :thumbsup2 My tip: be nice or this threads going to get closed ;)

[VacationDad]

Amen, sista...we tip 15 - 20 percent based on service at home, and we will do the same at Disney.


I think that is what most people will follow, regardless of the few on here that try to convince you that anything less than 20% is what lower class folks tip.

[jenseib]

Ok, Question... So if you are on the dining plan, do they automatically add the tip and charge it to your room? Or can you chose to add what you want, or just pay cash?

[Tricia1972]

Ok, Question... So if you are on the dining plan, do they automatically add the tip and charge it to your room? Or can you chose to add what you want, or just pay cash?

Those that are charged an automatic gratuity of 18% are:

DDE Discount Card Users - Anyone using the DDE card will be charged an automatic 18% gratuity.

Parties of 6 or more. It does not matter how young that 6th member of your party is - 6 bodies = automatic gratuity.

All others are not charged an automatic gratuity. Your bill will show what an 18% tip would be and what a 20% tip would be, but it's up to you to leave what you feel is appropriate.

[housemouse]

As I said, that is probably correct for your average NYC eating establishment. I am talking about the higher-end places. No reason for the condescending *sigh*.


Which is the point in and of itself. Most Disney restaurants are NOT on par with the higher end establishments in NY and LA, so 20-25% would be a bit overmuch in my book. I'll stick to the 15% range at Disney unless it is one of their very few high end places or the server is truly awesome.

[karajeboo]

Wow! It's a hot one over here! I just stumbled upon this thread and I always get a little irked at tipping conversations. I think that the only way people will ever agree is if waiting tables becomes a mandatory step toward official adulthood and everyone has to do it.

For those of us who have been there, done that, our view is probably toward a higher tip percentage, while I've spoken to those who just flat out don't understand what is involved in restaurant service. I think that's where a lot of the divisiveness lies.

It's important to note that just because service is slow, it may not be the servers fault (understaffed, etc) and they should not be penalized. I feel the only time a server should be tipped "low" (whatever that may be in your mind) is if they are just plain rude. I could go on and on, but I'll let it go at that.

[5onadime]

I understand that what i am about to say will make many people angry; but, the op wondered about tipping a flat 25 dollars. I don't have a problem with this. I like eating at wdw resteraunts but I do feel like they are greatly over priced. If a server only averages 2 tables an hour he would be making 50 dollars an HOUR. I don't feel sorry for the wait staff at all. That is a whole lot more than I make.:confused3

[mom2my3kids]

OH MY.........Quite a discussion I've started~why do people get so heated about tipping??? (small story)~~My husband has delivered pizza 1 day every other week for a close friends business (started out as a "favor"..11 yrs. later...) he usually gets an average of $3-4/delivery, nothing great, but hey he just delivers pizza's~some people will tip him $8-10 for the same service & he is shocked that he's tipped that much--he's just doing his job!!!--why do servers get offended when their not tipped "good" & why do some get offended when others only want to tip minimum? my point...their doing their job, if they expect more $$, working in the food industry is not the way to go--Anyway, thanks for all the tipping advice. :thumbsup2 My tip: be nice or this threads going to get closed ;)

Because the pizza delivery guy makes at least minimum wage he does not make 2.00 a hour plus tips. If your hubby is not making minimum wage its against the law and the company could be fined. Anyway when you go and someone waits on you, you should leave 15-20 percent of the bill for good service. Now if service sucks then tip accordingly.

[melomouse]

..... I think that the only way people will ever agree is if waiting tables becomes a mandatory step toward official adulthood and everyone has to do it.

For those of us who have been there, done that, our view is probably toward a higher tip percentage, while I've spoken to those who just flat out don't understand what is involved in restaurant service. I think that's where a lot of the divisiveness lies....




:thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Bravo, Kara! ITA!!!

[lynninpa]

I think that the only way people will ever agree is if waiting tables becomes a mandatory step toward official adulthood and everyone has to do it.

:thumbsup2 I like your way of thinking, karajeboo! Here's food for thought...what if everyone's income was at the mercy of others? Hmmmm...

[angelmav]

:thumbsup2 I like your way of thinking, karajeboo! Here's food for thought...what if everyone's income was at the mercy of others? Hmmmm...

In what walk of life is that not the case? Unless you have your own printing press, EVERYONE is dependant on someone for their salary.

[RainyD]

I keep reading that Disney suggests a certain amount to tip - where is that written anyway? :confused3

:mad: Disney should have left the tips included in the DDP. I enjoyed that so much and didn't have to worry about carrying cash to the restaurants. It was so convenient.

[lynninpa]

In what walk of life is that not the case? Unless you have your own printing press, EVERYONE is dependant on someone for their salary.
We are posting on a tipping thread. I think you know what I meant, angelmv.

[angelmav]

We are posting on a tipping thread. I think you know what I meant, angelmv.

That was your analogy, not mine. The constant boo hoo'ing for servers is where these arguments start. I didnt suggest that waiting tables be a means to adulthood (so that everyone could feel the pain, I suppose).

I am not trying to be flip or argumentative, but everyone has their own standards and these analogies and examples dont serve any means to an end.

[TDC Nala]

But if you are using the DDE card, you will have 18% added to your bill. The DDP may be similar.

For DDP, only if you have 6 or more in your party.

This seems to be becoming yet another heated tipping thread. Please try and keep the discussion to customary tip amounts.

[Annabelleasb]

Because the pizza delivery guy makes at least minimum wage he does not make 2.00 a hour plus tips. If your hubby is not making minimum wage its against the law and the company could be fined. Anyway when you go and someone waits on you, you should leave 15-20 percent of the bill for good service. Now if service sucks then tip accordingly.

He actually gets $5 an hour under the table & has since day 1. It's certainly not a company....little italian pizza place on the corner owned by a big ol' italian guy. Anyway 15-20% seems to be the average...sounds good to me.

[Aliceacc]

Back to the original question:

Math teacher and former waitress here with an easy solution.

Round your bill off to the nearest number that ends in a 5. Then divide by 5. Your tip will be approximately 20%.

[fey_spirit]

Ok that's just ridiculous - the tip is automatically going to be larger because they make you pay out the nose for your food to begin with. To then expect you to pay a higher percentage on top of that is just pathetic.

I thought the whole argument for those working at a pricer restaurant making way more money then someone at Denys working just as hard was supposed to be the expectations you have of the server.

I for one wouldn't change my tipping scale just because I was in a "fancier restaurant".

--- Edited to change Disney to Deny's it's 4:30, I should really go to bed.


Actually, it is not baloney necessarily but it depends on where you are eating too. Typically, the higher-end establishments where the service should be expected to be great, the expected tip in a city like NY or LA is 20 - 25%.

If you are eating in a greasy spoon in New York, a 15% tip is probably sufficient.

[xoprincessmomxo]

I think any waiter would be fine with 15-20%. We will be tipping the same as we do at home which is generally in that range depending on the service. I work a job where I get tips and I have never held a grudge against someone who left less than 15%...but I have held a grudge against people who leave nothing. Case in point: there are these 4 people who come in at least twice a week. They usually buy $40 worth of food and coffee drinks...but NEVER have left a tip! Drives me crazy! But I don't treat them any differently than the table next to them that tips 20%.

I personally have left a 20% tip or higher if my baby makes a huge mess...we clean it up the best we can, but I still feel bad. :sad2:

[Annabelleasb]

(April 5th -10th w/ DDP)~~~I don't want to walk out of a restaurant looking like "the cheap family of 5" so......what is an average tip weather it be ok, good, or excellent service. Honestly, I do take service into consideration but I'm certainly not going to leave a $40 tip. I was thinking more like $20-$25. (Except for Whispering Canyon, all are buffets)~Am I cheap???


ME DH DS~11 DD~7 DD~18 months :grouphug:



So........................with all this talk about tipping, no one answered my original question.......Am I cheap? lol :rotfl:

.................my god these smileys are cute

Me :coffee: DH:shamrock: DS~11:earboy2: DD~7princess: DD~18 mths.pooh:

[Aliceacc]

The answer is: It depends.

If you're leaving a $20 tip on a $250 bill, where there was no problem with the service, then, yes, "cheap" might be one adjective the servers use to describe you.

If the bill was in the $110 range, then"average" is probably closer to the mark.

If the bill was more like $50, then "Will you marry me?" is probably more like it.

[VacationDad]

I think any waiter would be fine with 15-20%. We will be tipping the same as we do at home which is generally in that range depending on the service. I work a job where I get tips and I have never held a grudge against someone who left less than 15%...but I have held a grudge against people who leave nothing. Case in point: there are these 4 people who come in at least twice a week. They usually buy $40 worth of food and coffee drinks...but NEVER have left a tip! Drives me crazy! But I don't treat them any differently than the table next to them that tips 20%.

I personally have left a 20% tip or higher if my baby makes a huge mess...we clean it up the best we can, but I still feel bad. :sad2:


Not to derail this thread, but don't you hate that places where you never had to tip before now all have their tip cups next to the register with some handwritten plea like "Tips for college". If you are just handing me a donut that I have paid for, you are not getting a tip from me.

[HaleyB]

Not to derail this thread, but don't you hate that places where you never had to tip before now all have their tip cups next to the register with some handwritten plea like "Tips for college". If you are just handing me a donut that I have paid for, you are not getting a tip from me.

Amen.
And I remember a time when 20% was a really good tip. Around 15% average.

To the OP- I think 10-15% for a buffet is fine. If my table is always clear and my drink always full I might give 20%. I did tip more when my kids were younger and I knew it would take extra time to clean up after us, even at a buffet.

[TLSnell1981]

So........................with all this talk about tipping, no one answered my original question.......Am I cheap? lol :rotfl:

.................my god these smileys are cute

Me :coffee: DH:shamrock: DS~11:earboy2: DD~7princess: DD~18 mths.pooh:

If you are planning on leaving a $20-25 tip for good service on a $200 tab.....yes.....you might be a cheapskate.

[HaleyB]

:thumbsup2 I like your way of thinking, karajeboo! Here's food for thought...what if everyone's income was at the mercy of others? Hmmmm...

Isn't everyone's income at the mercy of others? :confused3

[TLSnell1981]

In what walk of life is that not the case? Unless you have your own printing press, EVERYONE is dependant on someone for their salary.

:worship:

[mousehouselover]

I think part of the problem with the tipping issue is; some people think a dollar amount and others think percentage. If you got $20 service, tip it, if you got $5 service, tip that.

We had a situation just this morning where we were ignored by our server after she delivered our food. We had to ask other servers for things and we never got our drinks refilled. We got done and DH paid our bill, my DSis paid for her meal. DH gave a $2 tip for an $11 meal and DSis gave a $1.50 tip on an $8 meal, both thinking that the amount would signify dissatisfaction with the service but both tips were right about 18%. Why would she associate our low tip with poor service since it was a small bill?

On a $20 per person check, $2-4 per person is 10-20% and acceptable. How much you leave should depend on the level of service you receive. (I know there are some people who think that a 10% tip is cheap, but there are times where that is all that is warrented. If it's a buffet where I fill my own drinks and all the server does is clear the table, there isn't much actual service.) If you get outsanding service, the tip should reflect that, whether you look at a flat dollar amount or percentages.

We're a family of 5 as well and think that as long as the $20 is in the 10-20% range based on the level of service received, it should be acceptable and not cheap.

[TANYABETH]

May husband and I usually leave between 18-20% when we dine out. The other day we ate at local restaurant and at the bottom of the bill it gave what the tip of the total bill would be for 15%, 18% and 20% (I guess for those who are not great with math or perhaps a gentle reminder for the cheapskates). I have also seen this at a few other restaurants. This leads me to believe the the standard dining tip is thought to be between 15-20%.

[xoprincessmomxo]

Not to derail this thread, but don't you hate that places where you never had to tip before now all have their tip cups next to the register with some handwritten plea like "Tips for college". If you are just handing me a donut that I have paid for, you are not getting a tip from me.

Oh, crap! You're not the cheap tipper at my store, are you??? :lmao:

Actually, at my store (my sister and I own it) we DO have the tip jar next to the register. But, it is a coffee house/ diner so it is a little more justified. Our employees are baristas and actually make the drinks for you....they aren't just handing you a donut. I agree, if they are just grabbing something to go for you, the tip jar is dumb and makes you feel as though you HAVE to give a tip. I know, that at our store our employees are not living on their tips, anyway...being in a small town, they would be out on the streets if they were. We pay them minimum wage which is $7.25 here and they get tips. I have also noticed that young people and older middle aged people are the most likely to tip well around here. The senior citizen people that know us (small town) will tip well sometimes. But the 30-50 year olds rarely tip. :confused3

[Tricia1972]

I have also noticed that young people and older middle aged people are the most likely to tip well around here. The senior citizen people that know us (small town) will tip well sometimes. But the 30-50 year olds rarely tip. :confused3


Young people and older middle aged people are the most likely to tip well and then you say that the 30-50 year olds rarely tip? Are those in their 20's older middle aged? Am I a senior citizen in my 30's?!?!?!:lmao:

(I (think that I) know what you meant, I just had to have fun because this gave me a morning giggle)

[VacationDad]

Oh, crap! You're not the cheap tipper at my store, are you??? :lmao:

Actually, at my store (my sister and I own it) we DO have the tip jar next to the register. But, it is a coffee house/ diner so it is a little more justified. Our employees are baristas and actually make the drinks for you....they aren't just handing you a donut. I agree, if they are just grabbing something to go for you, the tip jar is dumb and makes you feel as though you HAVE to give a tip.


I don't tip the cashier at McDonald's or Burger King and sometimes they have to take the time to refill the fryer to fill my order, or make my kids a milkshake. I tip when I am sitting at a table and my order is taken and my food is brought out to me.

[disneyfav4ever]

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.I find that statement rude and sexist.

[jenseib]

All the local icecream places have tip jars and I HATE that. They are not serving me and I don't eat there, so why would I tip. I also don't tip at buffets where I get EVERYTHING myself and a server jsut comes by to take your tray away. My ex husband worked at one and he told me you weren't supposed to tip at places like that, and no ever tips there.

[mom2my3kids]

All the local icecream places have tip jars and I HATE that. They are not serving me and I don't eat there, so why would I tip. I also don't tip at buffets where I get EVERYTHING myself and a server jsut comes by to take your tray away. My ex husband worked at one and he told me you weren't supposed to tip at places like that, and no ever tips there.

Yes you are supposed to tip at buffets, now from what I have read its anywhere from 10-20% for buffets.

[VacationDad]

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.



I find that statement rude and sexist.

Sorry, you're right.

I reserve 20% for cute brunettes and redheads too.

[BuffaloGal]

Well, at the danger of getting another tipping thread closed, that's baloney. I've eaten in plenty of city restaurants and 20-25% is not "usual". I've eaten in plenty of rural restaurants and 10% is not "usual". 15% has been the norm everywhere I have ever eaten. Most resort and city restaurants are overpriced to begin with so a 15% tip there will be higher than a 15% tip in a less expensive restaurant.

Like I said, 20%+ is reserved for exceptional service, or cute blonde waitresses.

Good for me. I'm cute, blonde, and I provide exceptional service. lol. :banana:

[Rudegrle]

I understand that what i am about to say will make many people angry; but, the op wondered about tipping a flat 25 dollars. I don't have a problem with this. I like eating at wdw resteraunts but I do feel like they are greatly over priced. If a server only averages 2 tables an hour he would be making 50 dollars an HOUR. I don't feel sorry for the wait staff at all. That is a whole lot more than I make.:confused3

Actually that server has to tip out other people they are working w/. Buss boys, cooks, dish washers, hosts, bartenders...they all get a portion of the tips made in a night.

AND in some places (like Florida) servers can be paid less than Minimum wage because they get tips and the cost of living may not be as high.

[GrumpyPajamas]

Different levels of service demand different gratuity percentages.

I work in a high end restaurant in the northeast U.S., and my tips average about 20-25%. High-end white-tablecloth service requires a lot more from the server, so the higher percentage is justified.

The reason you need to tip based on percentages is that everyone else assumes that the server has been tipped a certain percentage.

Case in point: The other night we had a table of 9 people. Now, they had a great time and made sure to compliment everyone on the way out, but unfortunately they were from a country where tipping practices are not the same as ours. Their bill was about $1000, and they left a tip of $68. In their country, where servers are already paid a living wage, this would have been a very nice tip, but unfortunately, the server on that table ended up with:

$68
-1.5% of SALES to the bartender ($15)
-1.75% of SALES to the busser ($18)
-2.5% of SALES to the backwaiters ($25)
=$10

Yay, on a $1000 table, that server took home 10 bucks.

Unfortunately, the server is taxed as if he/she made 100 dollars on that table, so after taxes, the server has LESS money than if the table never walked into the restaurant. Thats even counting the two dollars an hour the server was paid by the restaurant.

That said, I have no idea how they tip their support staff in Disneyworld, but I will find out in 12 short days! I can't wait!

P.S. If you are the sort of person who leaves a terrible tip every time you go out to eat, my advice is to never eat in the same place more than once. After many years in this business, I have worked in all levels of restaurants, and I have certainly seen coworkers take out all sorts of revenge on rude customers and lousy tippers. It's highly illegal and immoral, but it happens, and you most likely would never know about it even if it happened to you. But, it's difficult to feel bad for those folks. Bad tippers are generally the same people that cut you off in traffic, talk on cell phones in the movie theater, and make horrible messes in public restrooms. It's the same complete lack of empathy.

P.S.S. Why on earth would you tip someone less than they deserve because they "make more money than" you? Did I read that wrong?

[xoprincessmomxo]

Young people and older middle aged people are the most likely to tip well and then you say that the 30-50 year olds rarely tip? Are those in their 20's older middle aged? Am I a senior citizen in my 30's?!?!?!:lmao:

(I (think that I) know what you meant, I just had to have fun because this gave me a morning giggle)


No...I am counting older middle-aged as our 50-60....Isn't that kind of older middle aged when people are living to their 90's these days (at least in our small town, I think the classicfication of ages is different as the median age is 65!) Anyway, I'm sure dun happy I could give ya a giggle this morn! :thumbsup2

[xoprincessmomxo]

I don't tip the cashier at McDonald's or Burger King and sometimes they have to take the time to refill the fryer to fill my order, or make my kids a milkshake. I tip when I am sitting at a table and my order is taken and my food is brought out to me.

And that's fine...I'm not going to say you are a bad tipper for not tipping in the little makeshift tip jars. And I am not justifying a need for those tip jars at donut shops or McDonalds. I am saying that people with those tip jars are not relying on their tips to live and usually get paid at least minimum wage. If you don't feel the need to tip your local coffee barista, that's fine. I was just saying there is a lot more work that goes into making a fine espresso drink than grabbing a donut somebody else made from the case. Oh, and if you are the bad tipper at my store...:wave2: ... I didn't mean "crappy" in a bad way. More like "thrifty". :rolleyes1

[Annabelleasb]

Sorry, you're right.

I reserve 20% for cute brunettes and redheads too.

What about brunettes w/ red highlights?? :thumbsup2

[disneyfav4ever]

Sorry, you're right.

I reserve 20% for cute brunettes and redheads too.:rolleyes1

[disneyfav4ever]

Actually that server has to tip out other people they are working w/. Buss boys, cooks, dish washers, hosts, bartenders...they all get a portion of the tips made in a night.

AND in some places (like Florida) servers can be paid less than Minimum wage because they get tips and the cost of living may not be as high.Where do servers give part of their tips to cooks?

[Rudegrle]

Where do servers give part of their tips to cooks?

Do you really want me to name places here??? What does that matter? The point was that servers don't take home the entire tip.

[disneyfav4ever]

Do you really want me to name places here??? What does that matter? The point was that servers don't take home the entire tip.Well at the restaurants I've worked, servers did not share their tips with cooks or dishwashers. They did share with bussers, but that was it.

[Rudegrle]

Well at the restaurants I've worked, servers did not share their tips with cooks or dishwashers. They did share with bussers, but that was it.

Well, that's fantastic, good for you. Looks like you get to take home a bigger portion. My experience has been different.