https://www.eater.com/2018/11/28/18112819/tipping-in-america-guide-restaurants-how-muchIt should be common knowledge that when dining out in America, you tip your server. Sure, tipping is inherently exploitative, but as long as tipped minimum wages exist, you don’t get to opt out.
But how much? People are eating out more and more at restaurants that fall outside of the full-service box, and it’s not always entirely clear how they should adapt tips to these new dining styles. Plus, with the advent of Square and other mobile tipping platforms that prompt customers to tip at the register with either a percentage or dollar amount, the whole business can feel a bit awkward. But it doesn’t have to be.
Here’s what to tip in just about any situation, according to dining experts and the people for whom tips really matter.
-Summary-
Sit-down restaurants: 20 percent — always.
Food trucks: Add a buck or two.
Bars: Dollar per drink at dives, 20 percent at cocktail bars.
Bakeries and coffee shops: Add a buck or two.
Fast-casual counter service: 20 percent
Delivery: $5 minimum