What's the protocol for tipping the hookah guy/gal at middle eastern restaurants or hookah bars?

Question

I went to a place last night, and the food was great, service was great, and I tipped 20% on my bill, but a guy came around 3 times to check the coals on top of my hookah and make sure it was smoking ok. It seemed like a very 'tip-worthy' function, but I wasn't sure how to go about it, where to put the money, or what. Just handing it over seems out of place. Leaving it on the table would be ambiguous. Maybe the waitress shares a percentage, like with the table bussers? I have no idea.

What's the normal tipping etiquette for hookah service? I want to do the right thing, but I'm not sure what it is.

thanks

Kevin

Answer 1

Well in the middle east people are not all that subtle. and a tip or Baksheesh is graciuously accepted even if you just fold the note and hand it over with a word, "Shukran" Meaning thank you so much. To which they would reply "Mashkhoooor!" meaning thank you. you should reply to this with "Ahllan Wa sahllan", meaning Your Welcome!
Im not sure how its in the US, with Americanized Middle eastern waiters, or Caucassan Americans dressed up as Middle easterners. But if they are original true blue Middle easterners just hand it over and they will take it with a big grin and a bow.