MomTo3PrincessesInNJ
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jun 15, 2012
- Messages
- 1,191
Thank you.
I always hate having a gratuity AUTOMATICALLY added. Gratuity is based on the level/quality of "Service". According to http://www.businessinsider.com/this-is-how-much-you-should-tip-for-every-service-2012-8
So adding 18% is always assuming you are going to have great service. Okay, I know the argument that if you are not getting that level of service you should be speaking with a manager, but still.... That's my concern. I have also had some service at WDW that fall in the "Poor Service" category. In a regular restaurant, I make allowances for a crowded restaurant, because it's always a variable for them. At WDW, It's always crowded, so they typically KNOW and should staff it appropriately, so there is less of an excuse.
- 15% for adequate service
- 20% for exceptional service.
- For poor service, leave 10% or less.
- It’s okay to leave nothing for exceptionally poor service, but only if you’re sure it’s the waiter’s fault.
Now that being said, I usually do get good service at Disney and the food is usually descent. But let's face it, $60.00 for a "Buffet" (Not a character dining either) is a LOT of money when I can get the same level of service and quality at the Ponderosa for HALF (or less) the price, so just becuase it's over priced, paying $12.00 (per person) to have a waiter/waitress fill my drink (and some are even self service there too) and take away my plates is a HUGE price.
I believe in Tipping and tipping well, but just because the food is overpriced doesn't mean the tip should match (unless the service is truly exceptional). Conversely, if the service is NOT up to par, I believe in leaving a tip just as appropriate. I am not one to leave a ZERO tip (or like some leave a penny or nickel) even for poor service. (unless it's sooooo bad that I just don't even stay).
I'm not going to argue over tipping, or the cost of Disney's food. If you don't routinely tip 18% OF THE BILL (not what you think the food would be worth in your hometown) then maybe TIW isn't for you. For our family of 5 it's a huge money saver.
FWIW, over Christmas I had awful service at Cape May Cafe. We were a party of 6 and used TIW, so tip was automatically included. I spoke with the manager and he adjusted my bill (took off 2 adult meals, which was more than my "mandatory" tip). So, if the service is bad then you don't HAVE to tip that amount-- but, as you know, you should be speaking with the manager in that case.