Tipping in Chicago: A Windy City Guide to Not Being a Cheapskate
Tipping. It's a delicate dance, a minefield of social expectations. And in Chicago, where deep-dish pizza and big shoulders are the norm, the tipping etiquette can be as confusing as trying to find a parking spot downtown. Let's break it down, shall we?
Dining Out: More Than Just Deep Dish
So, you've finally decided to venture beyond hot dogs and pizza and experience Chicago's fine dining scene. Good for you! But before you dig into that perfectly seared steak, let's talk about tipping. Generally, you should aim for 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. Yes, I know, math isn't everyone's strong suit, but trust me, your server will appreciate the effort.
Remember, this is just a baseline. If your service was exceptional – like, mind-blowing, "I'm-writing-a-glowing-review" kind of good – feel free to go above and beyond. And if your server was, well, less than stellar, adjust accordingly. But let's be real, Chicago's service is usually pretty top-notch.
Beyond the Dining Room: Tipping 101
Tipping isn't just for restaurants, folks. It's a city-wide phenomenon. Here's a quick rundown of other tipping situations you might encounter:
- Bars: Aim for $1 per drink, or 15-20% of your tab.
- Coffee Shops: Tipping isn't strictly necessary, but a dollar or so is always appreciated.
- Taxis and Rideshares: 15-20% is standard.
- Hotels: A few bucks for housekeeping is always nice, and consider tipping bellhops for carrying your bags.
- Tour Guides: 15-20% is customary for a great tour.
Pro Tips: How to Avoid Tipping Faux Pas
- Cash is King: While most places accept cards, having some cash on hand is always a good idea for smaller tips.
- Splitting the Bill: If you're splitting the bill with friends, calculate your portion of the tip before dividing the total.
- Don't Be a Cheapskate: Seriously, those folks working in the service industry are humans too. A little generosity goes a long way.
How to... Tipping Edition
- How to calculate a tip quickly: Multiply the bill by 0.15 or 0.20 for a 15% or 20% tip.
- How to tip when using a credit card: Most payment terminals will ask for a tip percentage.
- How to handle multiple checks: Calculate the tip for each check separately.
- How to tip for exceptional service: A tip above the standard 15-20% shows your appreciation.
- How to handle bad service: While you can tip less, it's often better to speak to a manager.