Tipping in NYC: A Survival Guide
New York City: the land of dreams, endless possibilities, and... tipping. Yes, you heard me right. Tipping is like a secret language here. It's not just about showing appreciation; it's a complex social code that can make or break your NYC experience. Let’s break it down, shall we?
Dining Out: The Tip Tightrope
Ordering a $15 burger and ending up paying $20? Welcome to NYC, where tipping is as essential as breathing. The standard tip for waiters and waitresses is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. Remember, this is just a baseline. If your server was exceptional (like, mind-blowing), feel free to go higher. But if your water glass was empty for most of the meal, maybe reconsider that 20%.
Pro Tip: In fancy restaurants, tipping tends to be on the higher end. And if you're in a group, it's customary to tip based on the total bill, not just your individual order. Don't be that person.
Beyond the Restaurant: Tipping Territory
You'd think the restaurant scene would be the tipping climax, but nope. There's more.
- Bars: A dollar per drink is usually sufficient, but if your bartender is crafting complex cocktails, feel free to bump it up.
- Taxis and Rideshares: While tipping isn't mandatory, a 10-15% tip is appreciated. Remember, your driver probably knows shortcuts to avoid traffic, and that's worth something.
- Hotels: A dollar or two per bag for bellhops, $2-5 per day for housekeeping, and $2-5 for hailing a cab with a doorman are typical.
Tipping Faux Pas: Don't Be That Guy
Nobody wants to be that person who stiffed the waiter or tipped poorly. Avoid these common tipping mistakes:
- Not tipping at all: This is a big no-no. Even if the service was subpar, a small tip is better than nothing.
- Tipping on the total including tax: Tip on the pre-tax amount.
- Using a tip calculator app: It might seem efficient, but it can come off as cheap. Just do the math in your head.
Remember: Tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service. It's not a mandatory tax. Use your judgment, be generous when you can, and remember, a little goes a long way.
How To... Tipping Edition
- How to calculate a tip: Multiply the pre-tax bill by the desired percentage (0.15 for 15%, 0.2 for 20%).
- How to handle split checks: Each person calculates their tip based on their individual bill.
- How to tip with cash: Discreetly leave the cash on the table when you leave.
- How to tip with a credit card: Add the tip to the bill before signing.
- How to handle bad service: While it’s tempting to leave no tip, a small tip with a polite note explaining the reason for the low tip can be effective.
By following these guidelines, you'll navigate the complex world of NYC tipping with ease and grace. Happy tipping!