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My colleagues and I like to have the occasional lunch outing on Fridays.  It’s a nice way to hang out outside of work.

I’m a little miffed after this latest trip.  The restaurant has decided that large parties automatically have an 18% tip added on.  I know it’s polite to tip… but when did it become mandatory?  And the real kicker… this was a buffet lunch.

Now why do I think this bullshit?  Let me explain:

• A mandatory tip says to me that the restauranteur and I have entered into an implied contract.  There should be a service level agreement, meaning that I should get priority treatment over those that can choose their tipping level.  Never happens…
• Mandatory tipping at a buffet?  You want eighteen cents on the dollar to bring water and take away plates?  That’s just ridiculous.
• A preset tip is automatically applied because I have a large party?  Since when does it take any more effort to deal with a table of twelve as opposed to three tables of four?  Scores high on my bullshit meter.

Tips are earned, not entitled.  I think the biggest reason that this 18% mandatory tipping has become acceptable is because we let it.  Let your opinion be known, either with your voice or your money.  I know I wont’ be returning to this establishment.

Just my two cents…

February 12th, 2010 | Category: Incredible Bullshit, Rant | Comments are closed