What would you have said to this?

Question

I went out for dinner the other night, and the bill came to £41 something, so I handed over £50. The waiter picked it up and said "Do you want the change?"

I thought it was so rude and presumptious I just said "yes please" and didn't leave a tip (which normally I would).

Sandra G - actually I am neither cheap nor broke. I am from the UK and we have a different attitude to tipping here. Don't be so rude in future.

Answer 1

They work for a living just like we all do. He should have not asked for a tip, but either way, you should have left one. 10% is standard for bad service. They get taxed on it. You are probably just cheap and broke, so that is why you did not consider the waiter's feelings.

Answer 2

I think you're completely in the right. In the UK, certainly, leaving a tip indicates that you've had good service. It's a reward - it's not part of the standard pay the waiter receives. Therefore, it should only be given when justified. A 10% tip for poor service is 10% more than should be given.
You did exactly the right thing - a tip should be discrete, and asking if you wanted your change back is definitely a bit too "in-your-face" for my liking.

Answer 3

Here in the states, if you pay with cash and the server cannot see how much that is, they will ask the same question. Most restaurants use a plastic folder for the bill for your privacy. If you put cash inside, the server will not count it in front of you, but will ask that question. I often pay cash for lunch and I am frequently asked this question. If I dont' have the right amount for the meal and tip I just tell them yes, I need the change, then make the appropriate tip, 15 - 20 percent.

Answer 4

I don't blame you not leaving a tip. As someone who ran a pub with a 34 seater restaurant I would have sacked any waiter/ess I heard asking for a tip. They are paid to do a job and should not expect extra money just because they think they have done a good job. They should do a good job 100% of the time or find another vocation. Just in case someone says "But the tips make up for the low pay".....they should make sure they work for someone who pays the right wages along with money for overtime etc. and make sure they are not one of the many who claim benefit then expect someone to falsify their accounts paying you off the books on the side, cash in hand!

Answer 5

Too damned right i'd have had the change, presumptious little sod of a waiter!
Like you i normally tip, depending on quality of food and service.
I think i would have probably blown my top at the waiter for being so cheeky.

Answer 6

you probably leave 25 cents as a tip. usually if its really good service food and all 10 bucks or more is a tip for the waiter or waitress. dont take things the wrong way so easily remember not everyone is like you or alike 100% with another.peace

Answer 7

Sandra G, they don't get taxed on tips.
My husband works in the catering trade and they don't get paid much but I wouldn't have left that guy a tip either! If the service was bad, they don't deserve one, I only tip if the service has been exceptional and then it is only about 10%. (if that!)

Answer 8

Yes would be my answer - and I would likely avoid leaving any tip on the basis of service. I tip if the meal or the waiter warrants it - I am not shy to leave nothing - call me skinflint !

Answer 9

Well I think he was trying to save himself a tip, and that might have been what you would have left for a tip anyhow. . .I mean, after all, it is a little bit lazy and presumptuous but that doesn't mean he didn't work hard for the entire meal to not tip him at all. So, I can see both sides, actually.

Answer 10

id had said "well the bill is £41 n i handed u a £50 YES i want the change" cheeky waiter id have complained

Answer 11

Yes, you were right, how rude he was.

I'd have taken the money away.

Shame because if it was a good meal I'd have rounded it up to £50 normally.