Tipping at a restaurant where the food is expensive, but the service is just normal

[delmar411]

Slightly OT... when I was a waitress, we made $2 an hour. Waitresses now make $3.15 an hour? WOW!!! So the average waitstaff pay has risen $1.15 an hour in THIRTY YEARS?? Jeez Louise!

Actually DH earns $2.13/hr as a server. Not sure what state gives $3.15/hr.

And DH certainly does NOT work for min wage. He busts his behind for tips and if he could get an office job paying as much money w/ the same flexibility then he would. Tips are what he supports his FAMILY on. Not his entertainment. Servers are not all single guys/girls, looking to make some drinking money. Many, many servers are supporting their families.

 

[delmar411]

I won't cite sources, since I was giving my opinion not a thesis, but I will explain what I meant by the 20% comment.

If the restaurant adds 20% to everything on the menu the prices would be the same as an included tip. If servers are happy to get 20% average tips how would that be not enough to pay them minimum wage or more based on the original menu prices? They would be making the same amount. If they divide that 20% with other staff, surely the employer could do the same.

Customers that treat you like slaves would still do so, but they can be the worst tippers anyway.

This is what I tell DH all the time. I keep saying we need to open a restaurant that pays their servers 20% of the total sales and simply have prices raised accordingly to cover that payment.

Then only hire really great servers. It would be easy to keep great servers since they wouldn't be getting depressed over so many people stiffing them.

Looking at the costs of say a $7 burger...20% more is simply $8.20 for that burger. I think people would prefer that to the current tipping style we have now.

 

[DisneyCowgirl]

According to CNN rotfl 15% is for average service, where 20% is for good service. It's been that way for quite a few years. I consider the tip as part of the cost of eating out, and if I can't afford it, I don't go.

I read this CNN thing as saying just what I did--20% is for "very good" service. Now obviously, what constitutes "very good" is subjective.

 

[christinec68]

This is what I tell DH all the time. I keep saying we need to open a restaurant that pays their servers 20% of the total sales and simply have prices raised accordingly to cover that payment.

Then only hire really great servers. It would be easy to keep great servers since they wouldn't be getting depressed over so many people stiffing them.

Looking at the costs of say a $7 burger...20% more is simply $8.20 for that burger. I think people would prefer that to the current tipping style we have now.

You would think so, but so many people complained about poor service when tips were included with the Didney dining plans because they felt the waiters/waitresses didn't think they had to earn them since they were pretty much guaranteed.

I have been places were tipping was either included or not expected and can't say I received better or worse service. Although my sister went to an all inclusive place in the Bahamas once and was furious that tips were included because the service was terrible.

 

[eeyore#1fan]

This is vaguely budget related and people here tend to have good thoughts, so I wanted to run something by you guys. I've known enough waiters through the years that I've always considered myself an above average tipper. Average service gets 20%, higher for exemplary service. I will rarely go bellow 20%, though I had to last night. My family of five generally sticks to Applebees or Bob Evans type restaurants. Between the cost of feeding five people, plus worrying about taking three kids under age 10 to somewhere nice, it is just too much to handle. Normally we spend about $40-50 at a restaurant and tip 20%. This week we went to T-Rex in DTD and spent $100 before tip. The service was just fine, no problems at all. But my problem was that the Trex waitress didn't work any harder than a normal Applebees waitress. The food was so expensive because we were paying for the atmosphere, not extra service. It seemed a bit unfair to the Applebees servers of the world that the people at Trex basically got double the tip just because they work in a pretty restaurant. I still ened up tipping my 20%, but felt dirty doing it. It just didn't seem earned. What are other's thoughts?

My thought is that this is a very stupid question.

 

[fakereadhed]

You would think so, but so many people complained about poor service when tips were included with the Didney dining plans because they felt the waiters/waitresses didn't think they had to earn them since they were pretty much guaranteed.

I have been places were tipping was either included or not expected and can't say I received better or worse service. Although my sister went to an all inclusive place in the Bahamas once and was furious that tips were included because the service was terrible.

All inclusives and DDP are prepaid meal plans. Don't know if that makes a difference, but it might.

 

[svioli]

If you can't afford to tip in the 15/20% range - BASED ON THE COST OF THE FOOD/DRINK THAT YOU ORDER - then don't go out! The server shouldn't be penalized because you think you're paying too much for food at an expensive restaurant, or you have 5 people in your family, etc.

Save your arguments that there should be no tipping and servers should get a fair wage. I totally agree, but they don't, and it's not about to change. Deal with it.

Sorry for the snark - I spent years as a waitress, and although it was a ton of fun and 99% of people tipped appropriately, there was always a select few that thought they were "above" tipping or thought they were making a "statement" when they didn't tip appropriately.

 

[tomthebarncat]

the Germans do it, the customer is not expected to subsidize the wages of the restaurant staff, so no tipping is required nor expected. The last time I was in the states, I did not tip anywhere simply because I am not used to it. I will also state that I did not even get average service in the few places that I ate out at, so therefore did not even give it a second thought! FYI: I was only in the states due to my dad almost died, so I was under a bit of duress! So no need to flame me for not tipping!

 

[sydneysmom]

This is vaguely budget related and people here tend to have good thoughts, so I wanted to run something by you guys. I've known enough waiters through the years that I've always considered myself an above average tipper. Average service gets 20%, higher for exemplary service. I will rarely go bellow 20%, though I had to last night. My family of five generally sticks to Applebees or Bob Evans type restaurants. Between the cost of feeding five people, plus worrying about taking three kids under age 10 to somewhere nice, it is just too much to handle. Normally we spend about $40-50 at a restaurant and tip 20%. This week we went to T-Rex in DTD and spent $100 before tip. The service was just fine, no problems at all. But my problem was that the Trex waitress didn't work any harder than a normal Applebees waitress. The food was so expensive because we were paying for the atmosphere, not extra service. It seemed a bit unfair to the Applebees servers of the world that the people at Trex basically got double the tip just because they work in a pretty restaurant. I still ened up tipping my 20%, but felt dirty doing it. It just didn't seem earned. What are other's thoughts?

I'm putting on the flame suit now, but honestly, this just ticks me off.

Wow. You actually felt dirty paying a 20% tip at Disney because you thought the service was just average. And you normally tip 20% at Applebee's ?? But the service at T-Rex was average, yet it did not meet your criteria that you follow for tipping at Applebee's ? Honestly I don't mean for this to come out harsh, but what exactly did your waitress need to do to "up the ante" from Applebee's to warrant your 20% tip ? What it seems like is that because the prices are higher at T-Rex than Applebee's, you didn't want to spend the extra $$ in tips.

The food is expensive because you are at Disney. You probably saw the menu before ordering and knew the prices. At that point you could have decided to leave. If you want to save money, eat outside of the parks. But don't take it out on a hard working waitress just because "you think" that the food is overpriced and therefore, your waitress should have preformed some kind of tricks to get the 20% tip. It's insulting to people that are waitstaff. I have never waitressed, but I have had many friends that have. And it's an attitude like that, that just annoys me. Like you're SO much better than them and they have to "perform" for you and your family so you'll throw a few extra shillings their way. Honestly, if this waitress performed all of her duties and served your family and your needs then why should she warrant less of a tip than an Applebee's waitress? Because the check is lower so you can throw a little extra out on the table? Service is service no matter where you are.

And to say you felt dirty paying the tip? Jeez, that's a bit dramatic, don't you think ?

 

[tomthebarncat]

If you can't afford to tip in the 15/20% range - BASED ON THE COST OF THE FOOD/DRINK THAT YOU ORDER - then don't go out! The server shouldn't be penalized because you think you're paying too much for food at an expensive restaurant, or you have 5 people in your family, etc.

Save your arguments that there should be no tipping and servers should get a fair wage. I totally agree, but they don't, and it's not about to change. Deal with it.

Sorry for the snark - I spent years as a waitress, and although it was a ton of fun and 99% of people tipped appropriately, there was always a select few that thought they were "above" tipping or thought they were making a "statement" when they didn't tip appropriately.

You made the decision to work as a waitress for an agreed upon sum per hour, how is this the customers fault? I did not make YOUR decision, you did! You live with it!! and if you feel that your valuable time and skills are only worth a few bucks an hour, that is 100% on you. Personally I would not get out of bed for what waitresses are paid!! so, go snark on that!

 

[christinec68]

All inclusives and DDP are prepaid meal plans. Don't know if that makes a difference, but it might.

I don't think it does when it comes to tipping. Having it included in the price of the meal or as part of a prepaid meal plan the amount of the tip is out of the diners' hands.

 

[shoney]

A tip is a percentage of the bill. We aren't going to change that. Price is not always an indication of a better restaurant, especially in a tourist area. To me, applebees's food/service/atmosphere is on par with the rainforest cafe, T Rex, etc. Just because the prices are higher, I wouldn't expect a higher level of service. If the person did their job, they would receive 18 to 20% of the bill. If I were dining at Blue Zoo or Charlie's, I would expect a higher level. The servers would memorize the specials, not read them. They would remember what each person orders and not yell out "who's having the XXXX" like they often do at an Applebees. They would have knowledge of the food, ingredients and wine selection. It is just a different experience.

While I can understand your question, I would have to say, you should tip the same percentage as you would at your local Applebees.

 

[CookieGVB]

I'm always confused by the "less expensive/more expensive" rationale with tipping. Most expensive establishments serve far less patrons and turn tables over at a significantly slower rate than a mid/lower priced establishment. An expensive restaurant's waitstaff may have half as many tables, twice as many courses, and greater expertise in the chosen profession. You just don't waltz into an expensive restaurant and gain employment with no experience.

My big complaint about WDW restaurants is the "captive audience" factor. Their prices are high relative to the food quality and creativity. When people suggest that WDW prices are comparable to ballgame prices, 6 Flags, etc., I only somewhat agree. Most people go to a ballgame or 6 Flags for a one day experience. Many go to WDW for multiple days. It gets tiring looking at overpriced/underwhelming food day after day.

One of the many reasons we rent a car when we visit - we're not "trapped". I didn't rent a car the last time I went to Vegas, and felt trapped on the Strip.

I've had relatives who waited tables - it's not easy, and if I don't want to tip as much as they should get, then I pick up a pizza somewhere. I don't like movie prices, either, but I don't bargain the price down because one movie was shorter than another. You pays what you pays when you want to eat out.

 

[tomthebarncat]

One of the many reasons we rent a car when we visit - we're not "trapped". I didn't rent a car the last time I went to Vegas, and felt trapped on the Strip.

I've had relatives who waited tables - it's not easy, and if I don't want to tip as much as they should get, then I pick up a pizza somewhere. I don't like movie prices, either, but I don't bargain the price down because one movie was shorter than another. You pays what you pays when you want to eat out.

If I order a meal that costs 10.00 and that is the clearly stated price on the menu then why am I expected to add 20% to that cost? this argument makes no sense! Life is about choices, you choose to wait tables then you are agreeing to be paid whatever the restuarant sets as it's hourly wage. Remember if it weren't for the customers they would not need anyone in the restaurant. The Europeans do this right, staff is part of the cost of doing business. Thankfully, the customer is not expected to pay for the staff!

 

[NHdisneylover]

the Germans do it, the customer is not expected to subsidize the wages of the restaurant staff, so no tipping is required nor expected. The last time I was in the states, I did not tip anywhere simply because I am not used to it. I will also state that I did not even get average service in the few places that I ate out at, so therefore did not even give it a second thought! FYI: I was only in the states due to my dad almost died, so I was under a bit of duress! So no need to flame me for not tipping!

All the Germans I have asked (many--we do not like to stand out as not having learned local customs) say tipping about a euro a person is the thing to do--or a little less if it is easy to round up but that not tipping at all is rude I am curious, are you German or American? Maybe it is regional here? Either way it is a lot less than 20% most of the time--and unlike in the US it is not tied to the price of the meal.

 

[tomthebarncat]

All the Germans I have asked (many--we do not like to stand out as not having learned local customs) say tipping about a euro a person is the thing to do--or a little less if it is easy to round up but that not tipping at all is rude I am curious, are you German or American? Maybe it is regional here? Either way it is a lot less than 20% most of the time--and unlike in the US it is not tied to the price of the meal.

I am an expatriot who has been here for 12 years and will often tell them to keep the small change (stimso) I spelled it like it sounds. Keeping a penney or two is very different then subsidizing the wages of the staff. On occasion at my favorite Italian restaurant, I will give the owner a 5 euro bill as a gesture of goodwill. The head chef likes to come out with a small treat for my dog! Now I do tip at the Mercedes dealer, but only when they do things for my car and do not charge me for it. I will give the mechanic 5 euros to have a beer on me. Mercedes knows who its customers are! and I appreciate the great service!

 

[NHdisneylover]

I am an expatriot who has been here for 12 years and will often tell them to keep the small change (stimso) I spelled it like it sounds. Keeping a penney or two is very different then subsidizing the wages of the staff. On occasion at my favorite Italian restaurant, I will give the owner a 5 euro bill as a gesture of goodwill. The head chef likes to come out with a small treat for my dog! Now I do tip at the Mercedes dealer, but only when they do things for my car and do not charge me for it. I will give the mechanic 5 euros to have a beer on me. Mercedes knows who its customers are! and I appreciate the great service!

Well I think that is different than NO TIPPING. My understanding is that tipping a small bit (1 Euro or so) in restaurants is polite and not doing so indicates you were unhappy with the service. Many of our younger friends say their older parents will try to walk out having only raounded up when it is 15 cents or so and they supplement and are embarrassed (sort of like when my DFiL had not yet gotten teh message that 10% was no longer considered a nice tip). Even wikki and trip advisor suggest at least a Euoro or 5-10%. I guess we just have different sources. Posting that tipping is not done at all could lead others to think this is the case and not tip if they visit which just makes us all look more like ugly Americans. Thus, my desire to clear things up.
I am not sure what the mechanic has to do with anything but I guess I am glad you like yours.

 

[tomthebarncat]

Well I think that is different than NO TIPPING. My understanding is that tipping a small bit in restaurants is polite and not doing so indicates you were unhappy with the service--posting that it is not done at all could lead others to think this is the case and not tip if they visit which just makes us all look more like ugly Americans. Thus, my desire to clear things up.
I am not sure what the mechanic has to do with anything but I guess I am glad you like yours.

The mechanic was an example of what I think is appropriate tipping, which is a monetary reward for excellent service. As for the ugly american I do my best to stay far away from places that the military frequent. Just yesterday I watched a young man order ice cream and then get mad because they would not take US dollars. I politely reminded him that the legal tender in Germany is the euro not the dollar. This is the type of behaviour that personafies the stereotype of the ugly american. The other one is why don't you speak english? Spend time around a military base and you will see this crap everyday. So I guess I am an ugly american because I don't tip. You have given me a good topic for discussion with my clients, as I love to share my former culture and way of life with them, it is always good for a laugh.

 

[dis75ney]

I haven't read this whole thread, just bits and pieces, so I'm not going to get into the argument of what percentage to tip...the fact is that here in the US food servers are paid on a tipped minimum wage and the government expects patrons to tip their servers to make up the difference so the server earns the standard minimum wage. That's not going to change anytime in the near future. So be it.

*Dons flame suit*

OP, are you faulting the server at T-Rex because the restaurant charges more for their food than Applebees? How is that fair to the server? The server doesn't set the prices on the menu...that is set by management or the parent company, whichever applies to the restaurant in question. The server at T-Rex works just as hard, if not harder, than the server at Applebees (based on my personal experience working for both companies). In my humble opinion, it's wrong to penalize the server because you CHOSE to eat at a restaurant that charges more for their food. Surely you knew that the food at Disney would be more expensive than at Applebees. On our May trip, we spent close to $100 for dinner at 50s Prime Time Cafe for three (2 adults, one child). I can take my family to Ed Debevics in downtown Chicago and only pay $40 for the exact same experience and darned-near-exact same menu. But I didn't complain and certainly didn't feel "dirty" giving my Disney server her earned $20 tip. She didn't set the prices on the menu...

 

[gina2000]

So I guess I am an ugly american because I don't tip. You have given me a good topic for discussion with my clients, as I love to share my former culture and way of life with them, it is always good for a laugh.

No, you are an expat who has decided that your adopted country's tradition is an acceptable excuse to dismiss a longstanding norm in your former culture.

Waitstaff in Europe are considered professionals and are treated with respect by both their employers and their customers. They make a good living wage and the sweetener you leave them is a polite way to indicate that the service has been impeccable. While I would certainly like to see the respect accorded the profession here in the US, the wheels of change grind slowly.

I'm sorry you have so little respect for the country in which you were raised and most likely educated. While it's obvious that you are most pleased with your new country's traditions and culture, you might well remember that we are partners in the world despite our differences. Your response is no less rude than the "ugly Americans" you so gleefully cite.

JMHO.