~ Going Out~
Don’t count on the kindness of strangers.
Plan to be the person who makes someone’s night.
*
If the service is average? Tip 25%
If the service is good or exceptional? Tip 30-35%. This may depend slightly on the size of the bill.
*
If the service is lousy? Consider that this may not be entirely the server’s fault. Tip 20% (at least)
If the service is terrible? Still tip 20%. Plan to contact the restaurant the following day and say you had a bad experience. They may consider giving you a coupon (or gift card) for a future visit. They may actually listen to your complaints. Regardless, it’s not the server who deserves to be punished. (Important: Try to avoid mentioning the server or, if they insist, try to make it sound situational and be sympathetic so you don’t accidentally get someone fired. You might consider specifically saying, “I really don’t want someone to get fired over this.”)
*
I recommend downsizing your portions and overall orders with the intent of leaving a greater tip. After all, it is the experience that you are paying for in many instances.
Go out to go out. What I mean is that when you go out plan to make it worthwhile, memorable, and throw a bit of money in the direction of the people who are creating a good night for you.
*
Easy math:
Don’t tip less than $5. Even if you’re just buying two drinks or half-price appetizers.
If your bill is $30-40? Tip $10-15.
If your bill is $40-50? Tip $15-20.
If you bill is $50-60? Tip $20-25
If your bill is $60-70? Tip $25-30
If your bill is $80-100? Tip $30-35
If your bill is $100-125? Tip $35-40
If your bill is $125-150? Tip $45-50
If your bill is over $200? Tip $50+