Guides/Restaurant tip etiquette basics
Restaurant tip etiquette basics (US)
US full-service restaurants commonly expect a tip on top of the menu prices. Norms vary by city and venue; this page summarizes patterns people use — not a moral rulebook.
Common patterns
- Table service: many diners use about 15–20% of the pre-tax or post-tax bill (groups pick one rule and stick to it). Compare15% vs 18% vs 20%.
- Large parties: checks may include auto-gratuity / service charge — read the line before adding more.Gratuity vs tip.
- Counter / takeout / delivery: practices differ widely; follow the prompt on the screen or your usual habit.
- Poor service vs kitchen delays: people adjust differently; the math tools still work the same.
Worked money examples
- $64 pre-tax, 18%: tip ≈ $11.52; total with tip ≈ $75.52 before tax handling.
- $120 check, 20%, 4 people even: tip $24; ≈ $36 each if tax already in the $120.
- Auto 18% on $200: $36 already on the bill — confirm before stacking another 18%.
Splits
Equal:split evenly with tip. Uneven orders:tip by meal cost share. Parties:large groups.