Reconsidering the 15 percent tip

As a waiter it’s difficult not to approach new guests and make assumptions about what kind of tip you’re about to receive. A table of teenagers in the diner doesn’t look nearly as promising as a first date or birthday party.

But when the crumbs have settled and the check is signed, the reality of whether a table was satisfied with the service is right there on the tip line … unless, the tip is exactly 15 percent. Then, according to Slashfood’s Hanna Ruskin, a waiter has no idea whether you were pleased with the level of attention you received.

Her argument centers on the idea that over the course of the past two decades, the standard tip has edged up closer to 20 percent. And so a 15 percent tip might actually be the sign of a stodgy customer or someone who was potentially displeased with the service.