Is Tipping Waiters/Waitresses Still Customary in the United States?

With the tradition of tipping being more prevalent in recent years, the practice can be quite divisive. Whether it is customary to tip waiters/waitresses in the United States is a topic of much debate. Typically, tipping is expected; however, some individuals are pushing back against this norm due to perceived issues and changes in the work environment.

The Evolution of Tipping in the US

The expectation for tipping has grown over the years, and many believe that it has become a necessary part of the dining experience in the United States. However, not everyone feels equipped to participate in this practice. Here, we will explore the current state of tipping in the US, how it has evolved, and why some individuals and servers themselves are reconsidering the tradition.

The Opinion of an Ex-Server

From the perspective of a former food server, the reasons for tipping are often misaligned with the expectations placed on servers. According to someone who used to work for tips and now detests the practice, tipping is no longer a reflection of quality service. Instead, it has become a means for servers to collect additional income without the responsibility of providing exceptional customer service.

Current attitudes towards tipping

Today, the majority of food servers (around 85-90%) are primarily focused on collecting tips rather than providing quality service. This shift in focus is quite concerning for many regular diners, who feel that the quality of service is declining. The explanation often given is that these individuals are shifting from other jobs where tips were not as crucial, such as working at Jiffy Lube or Safeway, into the food service industry, where tips can make or break their income.

Calculate Fair Compensation

Contrary to the perception, other high-profile figures like Donald Trump, Bill Gates, and Elon Musk are actually calculating fair compensation at a much higher rate. For instance, a good food server can handle 5-6 tables simultaneously and can expect to earn a substantial amount of tips. Given that a 15% tip on a $100 bill would amount to $15, and if this happens every 1.5 hours, a server can easily earn $50 per hour. This makes the tipping culture appear more permissible from a financial standpoint.

Tipping in Ireland and Europe

While tipping is still prevalent in the US, the situation is quite different in Ireland and much of Europe. In these regions, tipping is not expected and is not typically given. If a diner does choose to tip, it is often in the form of rounding up the bill or leaving loose change, typically not more than 10% of the bill.

Rational for no tipping

The reluctance to tip in Ireland and Europe stems from several factors, including the reasonable expectation that servers are already fairly compensated through their base wages. Additionally, the practice may be influenced by cultural norms that prioritize fair labor practices and direct compensation for services rendered.

Tipping Fatigue and Its Impact

With the increasing financial burden of inflation and the growing sense of tipping fatigue, the custom of tipping has seen a decline in acceptability and commonality. As dining experiences have become more frequent and the tipping amounts have risen, some diners are increasingly questioning the traditional tipping practice.

The American Custom of Tipping

While tipping remains customary in the United States, many are reconsidering their stance. A 15% tip is often left to show that one is aware of the practice and to demonstrate appreciation for the service. In cases where the service is subpar, a cent or even a tip of 10% might be left to show that the service was unworthy of a larger amount. This practice can sometimes even prompt others to leave a larger tip, as observed by those who leave minimal tips.

The French System: A Broader Perspective

While the American custom of tipping seems deeply rooted, there are other systems prevalent around the world. For instance, the French system, where the service charge is included in the bill, is a more straightforward approach. This system eliminates the need for tipping and simplifies the dining experience for customers. Even in this system, there might still be instances where the cost of the server is not transparently included in the menu prices, which can cause confusion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while tipping is still customary in the United States, the practice is increasingly being questioned due to various factors, including inflation and a perceived shift in the quality of service. Whether you choose to tip or not, it is important to understand the cultural and economic implications of this practice. Additionally, considering alternative systems, like the French model, might help in creating a more equitable and straightforward dining experience for all.

Keywords: tipping, waiters, restaurant tips