Tipping on Take-out orders?
by Judith Bowman on 08/28/13
The recent query and controversy regarding Drew Breese ($3 tip on a $74 order) for take-out) prompts the question: To tip or not to tip counter staff for takeout orders in restaurants with dining rooms.
Answer: It is not necessary to tip staff at fast food or an exclusively take-out restaurant because the service is included in the price. Tipping for take-out orders in restaurants with dining rooms to acknowledge the effort in creating an enjoyable meal (especially where extras/exceptions have been requested) is appropriate. Tipping is a way of saying "thank you" in the ways that matter. Tipping is appropriate when counter staff make extra efforts or are especially pleasant and help make your take-out experience and maybe even your day(!) more pleasant. When counter staff display small, simple courtesies such as using your name, making conversation, ... are pleasant (!) and respectful..., etc. this is appreciated and should be duly acknowledged... in the ways that matter.
Insuring Prompt Service also suggests pleasant service and being polite, friendly, respectful and efficient when interacting with customers from the time an order is placed to the time the order is handed to them, is all part of the service.
Whenever a customer wants to tip, regardless of the amount they are recognizing efforts to create an enjoyable meal which is appreciated. The $3 tip technically, was not even required from Mr. Breese who was making a gesture.
In this recent very public blunder by the restaurant, it is refreshing to see that they took responsibility for the error. Read the manager's statement from the Del Mar Rendezvous Restaurant here.
