People in the U.S., should we tip servers when we place an order for takeout?

Question

If a server is only making 3-4 dollars an hour, and he takes my order, takes it to the kitchen, brings my order to me and cashes me out, is it standard to tip?

I always feel like maybe I am supposed to give at least something and that maybe the server is expecting me to.

Servers make less than minimum wage because it is understood that they receive gratuity for their services.

Um... no one is whining about his or her wages; this is simply how the service industry works.
They get paid less than minimum; they get tipped. How is this confusing?

Have you people who are complaining ever had to work, or did you have your parents pay your way through life until they finished buying your degree?

lol, I am not a server... I was a long time ago, but have no idea of etiquette today (hence the question in case you still don’t quite get it).
All the other jobs you mentioned have base wages that do not include gratuity, while gratuity is inherent in the U.S. service industry (can we get a+b=c yet?).

If you are not bright enough to understand how the service industry works, then please, hold on to your precious few dollars; stick to your boxes, McDonalds, Blockbuster and self-loathing. Please allow those who are civilized enough to see others as human beings the privilege of dining out and receiving a service from our fellow man.

Answer 1

Oh god, I dont even think I want to read the peoples replies. So ignorant. As a waitress for over ten years I made 2.50 an hour in my state. My wage was determined by what people tip. If people are unaware that thats how it works than tada! You know now!!! As a server it could be irksome to have a large take out order and get no tip. You are busy and trying to serve dine in customers, take cash, sometimes even cook on top of it.. (ya I did that).. Large to go orders can be a hassle because often times it takes more time to put it all together and bag it up then it would to serve a sine in customer. A tip would be nice. Not to mention at the end of the day it tracks all sales you made and its assumed that you make a certain % of tips off those sales (regardless of wheather you did or not) so needless to say you still have to claim that. Small order on the other hand really arent a big deal, servers wont curse you for it. Its always nice karma regardless to tip. I tip everyone when I can, people who make my coffee, people who give me drinks at a buffet, etc etc. If you can afford to tip for a carryout its definetly welcomed.:)



btw i love the above poster.. :) and also just noticed how many typos i just made.lol.

Answer 2

I don't believe in tipping. I believe in over-tipping. I usually try to do 25%... 15% as the standard gratuity to say "you did a good job and I appreciate it", 5% extra to hopefully brighten my server's day and a final 5% to make up for all the jerks who are too cheap and selfish to cough up a few bucks in gratuity that these hard working servers so rightfully deserve.

Of course, I had to work my way through school. And while I make a decent living now, I still remember the days when I was forced to work difficult and trying jobs that I didn't really want, simply because nothing else was available and I had bills to pay.

Of course, that doesn't really answer your question. I think Miss Manners would say that tipping for pick up orders is not required but tipping for delivered orders is (and the same 15%-20% rules should be followed.)

Of course, that doesn't mean you CAN'T tip if you want to do so. Is a few extra bucks really going to affect your life that much? And you might just make someone's day a little better...

Answer 3

I don't think it should be a standard tip, but I sometimes leave something. It depends on how much work I think they did. If all they did was bring a bag to me after the cook did all the work, then I don't think I should have to pay extra for that. Besides, if the restaurant offers takeout as an option, would you leave a tip when you go to a pizza place and order a slice or a Chinese restaurant for takeout? I guess it's personal preference.

Answer 4

i think thats its all personal preference. i know that im a heafty tipper depending on the situation. most of the time i tip a large amount if the server at least trys, i understand that sometimes they get busy and are running around the whole time and i end up filling my own cup but at least they try. if a server just doesnt care they dont get anything. ive even tipped cashiers if i feel like it. so for me attitude determines tip more that anything

Answer 5

Realistic I wish I could give you more than one thumb up.

I agree with you 100%, if they are going to whine about their wages perhaps they should get a better job.

Lillyian, your the only one I see whining here. Yes, I work, however I was smart enough to not get a job that doesn't pay less than minimum wage so I don't have to depend on tips.

Should I demand tips when I show up at shippers or recievers early? Or when I deliver a load without getting any tickets or in any accidents? NO, the fact is that that is my job, just like waiting on people is the apparent vocation of your choice.

I will not be guilted into leaving someone a tip. If I get service that warrants a tip I will leave one, if I don't then I won't. And, I don't see how someone bringing me a bag of food warrants a tip, I don't tip at the drive through, and I would be willing to bet anything you wanted that you don't tip at McDonalds either.

Answer 6

I do not tip for take-out. If you do, does that mean you should tip at the drive-thru? About 5 years ago there were only tip jars in three places..restaurants, cafes and bars. Now they are everywhere!! I went to Blockbuster the other day and there was a freakin' tip jar!! Why would I tip someone for standing there watching me walk around selecting movies? Give me a break!!

Answer 7

I do, its nice to acknowledge them. Its just you taking it out instead of sitting at his/her table. They make only tips and if the pay is like it is in SC for a waitress/waiter? Its ONLY 2.18 an hour. NOT 3-4!!

Answer 8

It's not standard to tip in that situation, but I do it because they did do work in getting my to-go order to me, even though I was not seated at a table. So it's a good idea.

Answer 9

I never do, and I've been told they don't expect you to either. They aren't waiting on you anyway - they are just brining you a bag.

I've never personally understood the notion of tipping anyway. I think they should just be paid more for their jobs by their bosses. I don't get a tip from my clients at work!

Answer 10

If it is a specialty vegan or vegetarian shop I would...or if it is place that makes sure something is vegetarian for you,like a person at Subway changing their gloves or using a different knife to make sure your food doesn't cross contaminate with meat.