The practice of tipping for to-go orders can be somewhat controversial and may vary depending on the restaurant and local customs. The reasons behind this can be attributed to several factors:
Tradition: Tipping is deeply ingrained in the culture of many countries, especially in the United States. It has become customary to tip for various services, including dine-in meals and, in some places, for to-go orders as well. Restaurants may continue this practice to maintain consistency and to align with the established tipping norms.
Staff Sharing: In some establishments, tips are pooled and shared among all staff members, not just servers. This means that even if a particular staff member, such as a server, didn't directly serve you for a to-go order, they might still be receiving a portion of the tips shared among the entire team.
Compensation for Packaging and Service: While you might not have received table service during a to-go order, there are other aspects involved in processing your order. This includes packaging, assembling the order, and ensuring it is complete and ready for pickup. Tipping for to-go orders might be seen as a way to appreciate the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into ensuring your meal is properly prepared.
Incentive for Good Service: Some restaurants may encourage tipping for to-go orders as a way to motivate their staff to provide excellent service even during takeout situations. The hope is that the promise of tips will encourage employees to be courteous, efficient, and accurate with to-go orders.
It's essential to remember that tipping practices can vary across regions and individual establishments. In some places, tipping for to-go orders might be more common, while in others, it might be less prevalent or even discouraged. If you're unsure about the tipping etiquette at a specific restaurant, you can always ask the staff or check the establishment's policy on tipping. Ultimately, tipping is a voluntary gesture of appreciation for the service you receive, so the decision to tip for a to-go order is entirely up to you.