Tipping in restaurants is a common practice in the United States, and it's an essential part of the service industry. In general, the standard tipping etiquette for restaurants in the United States is as follows:
Tip 15% to 20% of the total bill: The customary tip for good service in a restaurant is typically 15% to 20% of the total bill before any discounts or taxes. The exact amount you tip within this range depends on the quality of service you received.
Calculate based on the pre-tax amount: Tipping is usually calculated based on the pre-tax total. Some people find it easier to calculate by rounding up to the nearest dollar or by doubling the tax (which is usually around 7-9% in the U.S.) for a 15% tip.
Consider the quality of service: If you received exceptional service, you may want to tip on the higher end of the range. Conversely, if the service was subpar, you might consider a lower tip, but it's essential to provide feedback to the restaurant or manager if there were significant issues.
Account for larger parties: For larger groups (usually 6 or more people), some restaurants automatically add a gratuity of 18% to 20% to the bill. It's always a good idea to check the bill to avoid tipping twice or inadvertently undertipping.
Be aware of tip-sharing: In some restaurants, servers may share their tips with other staff members, such as bussers or bartenders. The tip you leave might be distributed among the entire team.
Leave cash tips, if possible: While it's becoming more common to tip using credit cards, leaving cash tips ensures that the server receives the full amount without potential processing fees.
Tip for delivery and takeout: For food delivery or takeout orders, it's customary to tip the delivery driver or staff who prepared your order. A tip of 10% to 15% is generally appropriate for these services.
Be polite and courteous: Always be polite when interacting with restaurant staff, even if you encounter issues. Tipping should not be used as a tool for expressing dissatisfaction with food quality; instead, communicate any concerns constructively.
It's important to note that tipping practices may vary slightly from region to region, so if you're unsure, you can always ask locals or refer to any posted guidelines in the restaurant. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary and appreciated for the service provided.