I can provide you with information about tipping customs when picking up food at a restaurant.
Tipping for takeout orders at restaurants is generally not as common or expected as tipping for table service. However, it can still be a nice gesture if you received good service, such as assistance with your order, special requests, or the staff being friendly and helpful.
Here are a few considerations regarding tipping for takeout:
Not Obligatory: Tipping for takeout is not considered obligatory, and many people don't tip when picking up food to-go.
Consider the Effort: If the restaurant prepared your order promptly, made special accommodations, or provided excellent customer service during the pickup process, you may choose to leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.
Tip Percentage: If you decide to tip for takeout, a standard tip amount is around 10% of the total bill, but you can adjust this based on your satisfaction and the level of service you received.
Larger Orders or Special Requests: For larger takeout orders or if you made special requests that required extra effort from the restaurant staff, you might consider tipping a bit more.
No-Contact or Curbside Pickup: During circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic, many restaurants offer no-contact or curbside pickup. If the staff goes out of their way to make the process smooth and safe, you may consider showing your appreciation through a tip.
Remember, tipping practices can vary by country, culture, and local customs. In some places, tipping for takeout may be more common than in others. If you're unsure about the tipping etiquette in your area, you can ask locals or do a quick online search to find appropriate guidelines.