Tip question on the Dining Plan

[richcook99]

We came to WDW last summer and we were on the Dining Plan. We never worried about tips because it was included. Tips aren't included this year, I understand.

I remember that we got really lousy service a couple of times last year. What do you all do when it comes to tips for bad service. Also what are your practices in tipping at buffets? Thanks for the "tips."

 

[cinnderly]

We had some not-so-great service last year too. Maybe this year the service will be better with some people because the tip isn't included, so they have to work for it a little more, you know?

As a former wait-staffer (in a number of NYC restuarants!) I tend to be a bit more critical, though I do try to understand the craziness and occasional frustrations. But if I get someone who clearly has an attitude issue, I don't give a very good tip at all. I always give something, but for very poor service I would have to give no more that 10%, and I think that is being generous in some instances.

That being said, I never had completely awful service last year.

 

[mom2my3kids]

You are going to get lots of different answers, but I will tell you what I do.

I always tip 20% unless I get bad bad service, and being a server I never really get bad service that I tip less then 20%. Sometimes my tips are above 20% because when the place is cheaper, I always leave at least 5.00 so if my meal is 10.00 or something my tip will be at least 5.00. Now at buffets I don't always tip over 15-20 percent. Now at Disney they like for people to tip 18% for good service, so I will do that. I was talking to my fellow server, and she used to work at Golden Buffet. She told me they still only made 2.13 a hour, but they had big sections so ended up okay in the money department. She said most people would leave 1.00 a person,But she said she busted her butt running, clearing plates, refilling drinks etc. I think if you get good service you should tip at least 15% of the bill. Have a great time at Disney, I can't wait for October to get here for our trip..

 

[Tink888]

For good service I tip 18% to 20%. For buffets, we tip around 1.50 per person. For bad service I would just tip less, but would never not leave anything at all.

 

[Pumbaa_]

Moved to the DDP Board

If your party is 6 people or more, an 18% gratuity will be tacked onto your bill, regardless of plan/no plan.

Have a great trip!

 

[TDC Nala]

If there are less than 6 in your party, you'll be able to determine the amount you tip. If there are 6 or more, you'd have to see the manager to try and get the tip amount reduced as 18% is included in the bill for larger parties (at all table service AND buffets).