How much should I tip when using curbside-to-go?

Question

Do curbside servers get paid a lesser wage because a tip is expected (like for a regular table waiter) or do they get paid more because the restaurant expects people to not tip? Please only reply if you actually work in a restaurant.

Answer 1

I work in a well known restaurant that does a lot of business in To go's. The person handling your to go food is working harder than most of the people in the restaurant. No, they don't expect 20% but they definetely deserve a couple dollars. And remember, if you go to a restaurant often enough, employees recognize you.

Answer 2

If you're talking about curbside stuff like Sonic, I usually will give them the coin portion of my change. Like if it's $2.50, I will give them the .50 between that amount and the next dollar amount.

I don't always tip those folks though...I mean, tips IMHO are for waiters in restaurants. Waiters are constantly filling your drinks, checking on you...stuff like that. Car hops just bring out your order and they're done.

Answer 3

I always tip ANY service I receive. Remember the old saying, "Don't piss off the cook." Even with curb-side service, I tip. If this is a restaurant you frequent, then the chances are that you will have the same employee(s) bring your food (curbside or other) to you again. It's always wise to take care of those that take care of you.

Answer 4

I give them two dollars. They're underpaid, and have to bag or box up your order, make sure you have utensils, condiments, napkins. Then they have to run out in possibly inclement weather while you sit in your car. To me that deserves something. And who knows if they also have a couple tables waiting?

I've done that when people have called in for takeout but I knew they were disabled and couldn't leave the car. I've run out in snow before. I always got a few bucks for the service.

Answer 5

give them 10% of your bill