GetSplitTip · Guide
Restaurant Tipping Etiquette in the United States
Tipping in the United States surprises many visitors. At most sit-down restaurants a tip is not included in menu prices and is expected. This guide explains why, how much is typical, and how to handle the situations that cause the most confusion.
Why tipping matters so much in the US
Under federal law, employers may pay tipped workers a cash wage as low as $2.13 per hour, as long as tips bring their earnings up to the regular minimum wage. Some states require a higher base wage, but in much of the country tips make up a large part of a server's income. That is why a tip at a sit-down restaurant is treated as part of the cost of the meal rather than an optional extra.
How much to tip at different kinds of restaurants
| Full-service sit-down restaurant | 18%–20% |
| Fine dining | 20%–25% |
| Bartender | $1–$2 per drink or 18%–20% of the tab |
| Buffet (staff clears plates, refills drinks) | About 10% |
| Counter service or takeout | Optional, 0%–10% |
| Food delivery | 15%–20%, often at least $5 |
Around 15% is generally seen as the minimum for acceptable table service, 18%–20% is the common standard, and 25% or more signals truly excellent service.
Automatic gratuities and service charges
Many restaurants add an automatic gratuity — often 18% to 20% — for larger parties, commonly six or more guests. Read the receipt before tipping: if you see "gratuity," "service charge," or "tip included," you do not need to add a full tip again. You can add a little extra for outstanding service. Note that some restaurants use a separate "service fee" or "kitchen fee" that does not go to your server; if you are unsure, ask.
Tipping on a discount, coupon, or gift card
Tip on what the meal would have cost without the discount. A $60 dinner paid with a $20 coupon still involved $60 worth of service, so a 20% tip would be $12, not $8.
What to do about poor service
Leaving nothing is rarely the right response, because problems are often caused by the kitchen or understaffing rather than the server. If service was genuinely poor, leave a lower tip — around 10% to 15% — and mention the issue politely to a manager so it can be fixed.
Paying the tip
- By card: write the tip on the signature line or select it on the payment terminal, then write the new total.
- In cash: leave it on the table or in the check folder. Cash tips are appreciated but not required.
- Tablet prompts: the suggested percentages are only suggestions; you can always choose a custom amount.
A quick example
Four friends have dinner with a $140 subtotal and $11.20 in tax. An 18% tip on the subtotal is $25.20, bringing the total to $176.40 — or $44.10 each. Enter the same numbers in the calculator and it shows each person's share instantly.
Tipping outside the United States
Customs differ widely. In many European countries service is included and people round up or leave 5%–10%; in Japan tipping is generally not expected. Canada is close to US norms. When traveling, check local practice before you go.
Want the numbers done for you?
Use the free tip and bill split calculator — it handles tax, before- or after-tax tipping, and any group size.