A "Captain's Tip" on a restaurant bill typically refers to a discretionary service charge or gratuity that is automatically added to the bill. This is common in some fine dining establishments or restaurants that provide personalized service and often have a team of staff members attending to the diners' needs.
The "Captain" in this context is a term used to refer to the head waiter or maitre d', who oversees the service and ensures that everything runs smoothly during your dining experience. The Captain is usually responsible for coordinating the service staff and attending to the guests' special requests.
The amount of the Captain's Tip can vary depending on the restaurant, but it's often a percentage of the total bill, typically ranging from 10% to 20%. Some restaurants may clearly state the percentage or a fixed amount on the bill, while others might leave it up to the diners to decide.
When you see a "Captain's Tip" on the bill, it means that the restaurant is including a service charge automatically, and you have the option to adjust it if you wish. If you feel the service was exceptional and want to show appreciation, you can leave the tip as is or add an additional amount. On the other hand, if you were dissatisfied with the service, you might consider asking to have the tip removed or adjusted accordingly.
It's essential to check the bill carefully and, if in doubt, you can always ask the staff or the Captain for clarification about the tipping policy and how the gratuity is distributed among the service staff.