tipping in buffets???

[emsip]

In a regular TS, the tip would be based on the quality of service from the waiter. But in a buffet where you have to get your own food, what do you base the tip on. Do the waiters do anything besides get your drinks?

 

[beattyfamily]

We tip them the same, unless the service was pretty bad.

 

[mickeyluv'r]

It's sort of a misconception that waitstaff at buffets don't do anything for you. Think about it.
In a regular restaurant, I try to tip around %20, if the service was good. In a buffet it does depend a little, but I try to tip at least %15. Yes, you do fill your own plate - but that is ALL you do for yourself (again, this does vary, at some places you do get your own drinks). The waiter still has to take your drink order, prepare your drinks (i.e. filling sodas) , bring your drinks, clear your plates every time you go for another serving, bring more drinks/water, replace silverware/napkins, prep your bill, bring your CC back to you. It's almost about the same amount of work for them - sometimes more if you go up many times.

 

[Frantasmic]

I agree. 5% less than you normally tip is suggested by many tipping sites.

 

[ducklite]

Unless service warrants more or less, I tip 20% at buffets.

Anne

 

[theostwalts]

does the waitstaff get a 15% tip like all other TS meals?

 

[KathylovesPooh]

The old standard is 10% for a buffet. Obviously adjust if the server or amount of service warrnants it.

 

[April in Disney]

We tip 20% at buffet usually depending on the service. Actually our favorite server works at BOMA for breakfast and we always give him a higher tip.

 

[LoveWDW]

10% is my understanding, too. It may depend on the area of the country.

 

[mnasf]

I think it customary to tip 15-20% at a buffet.

This is a little off topic, but at Disneyland, they charge you a 20% gratuity when you check-in at Goofy's Kitchen (i.e., you pay for the meal before you eat, and you pre-pay the tip).