Restaurant Tip Calculator
Calculate tips for dining out and split bills with friends
Restaurant Tipping Guide
Tipping at restaurants is customary in many countries, especially in the United States. Servers typically earn low base wages and rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.
How Much to Tip at Restaurants
- 15% Minimum tip for acceptable service
- 18% Good service with no major issues
- 20% Standard tip for quality service (most common)
- 22-25% Excellent service, attentive server
- 25%+ Outstanding service, special occasions
When to Adjust Your Tip
- Tip More: For exceptional service, difficult orders (dietary restrictions, substitutions), large groups, holidays, or when dining during busy times. If your server went above and beyond, show appreciation with a higher tip.
- Tip Standard or Less: If service was poor, but remember that kitchen issues are not the server’s fault. For truly bad service, speak with a manager rather than simply leaving a low tip.
Pre-Tax or Post-Tax?
Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax amount. However, using the total amount (including tax) is simpler and has become more common. Both methods are acceptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about tipping for this service
Standard restaurant tipping is 15-20%. Tip 15% for acceptable service, 18% for good service, 20% for excellent service (most common), and 22-25%+ for outstanding service or special occasions.
Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax amount. However, using the total amount including tax has become more common and both methods are acceptable. The difference is typically only 1-2%.
Tipping 10% on takeout is optional but appreciated, especially for large or complex orders. Some people tip $1-2 regardless of order size. Full-service tips (15-20%) are not expected for takeout.
Yes, tip 10-15% at buffets. While you serve yourself food, servers still clear plates, refill drinks, and provide service. They work hard and should be tipped, though slightly less than full-service restaurants.
For truly poor service, 10-15% is acceptable. However, consider whether issues were the server's fault (slow service they controlled) vs. kitchen issues (food quality, wait times). For terrible service, speak with a manager rather than leaving no tip.
If automatic gratuity is included (common for parties of 6+), you don't need to tip extra. However, if service was exceptional, adding 3-5% more is a nice gesture. Always check your bill for included gratuity.
Yes, calculate your tip on the total bill including alcohol. Bartenders and servers handle drinks and deserve tips on the full amount. Some people tip extra (20-25%) if they ordered expensive wine with table service.
Always tip on the original full price before any discounts, coupons, or gift cards. Your server provided full service regardless of your payment method. Calculate 15-20% of what the bill would have been.