Different rules for different kinds of restaurants, and levels of service.

 

	At Restaurants
	Wait staff 15% - 20% of the bill before taxes. Bartenders 15% - 20% of the tab; or, $1 for beer or wine, $2 for mixed drinks.  Ideally, pay your bar tab before leaving for your table.   Order at front If you order at the front and food is delivered to your table, it depends.  If, once you've ordered, the seating and decor compare with a standard, sit-down restaurant, tip 5%-10%.  If the food is delivered to your table only as a convenience, tipping is not necessary.
	What's an average restaurant tip?  Read our survey results.
	At Cafes
	Tip jar Optional.  Leave 5%-10% for good service or complicated orders, especially if the staff is hired and is more dependent on tips.
	At Buffets
	"fast-food" buffets No tipping necessary. "casino-style buffets" If you have a waitress or waiter who takes your drink order and checks on you, $1-$2 is appreciated. hotel buffets For business breakfasts, tip $1-$2.  At high-end hotel brunch buffets, 15%-20% frequently is the norm and sometimes automatically added..
	At Fine Dining
	Parking Attendant Usually $1-$3 Coatroom Attendant Usually $1 per coat Maitre D' If he gets you a table, tip $5-$10, more if you don't have reservations. Wait staff 15%-20% of the pre-tax bill Wine steward or sommelier For personal service from the wine steward, you may tip 10% of the wine bill. Restroom Attendant Usually .50-$1
	Other (including delivery)
	Pizza Delivery At least $1, 15% for normal service, more during rain, snow or other poor weather.