Do you tip takeout counter people?

I would think so. You've already enlisted their waiting services. If you're going to do that, you might as well break it down by what items you ordered, because you wouldn't tip as much on a drink as you would food.

 

Here's another question...

Some places charge a "gratuity" on top of your meal (especially if you are in a party of like 10 or more). Do you tip in those situations? I don't because it feels like to me getting taxed on a tax.

 

I would say it's okay not to tip in those situations. If they go above and beyond, I suppose you could tip a little extra.

*cue the waiters telling us about how the gratuity doesn't go to them...*

 

Actually, I was just about to say that I don't tip above the added gratuity unless I'm really impressed with the service. And even then, only if the added grat is 15%. If they're already adding in 18%-20%, that's plenty.

 

Question: How much of the gratuity goes to the server?

 

I can only speak for the places I did it (and the other caveat is that was almost 15 years ago), but the same amount goes to the server as any other tip. (i.e. the total tip minus anything you have to "tip out" at the end of the night to busboys, head waiters, bartenders, etc. depending on the establishment)

 

It really depends on the place. My friend works at Colton's steakhouse here in Arkansas and they do get all of that gratuity. I still tip if the gratuity is less than the 20% I would normally tip. At this particular place the gratuity is only 10% for parties 8 and over.

 

All of it, unless it's a shady restaurant. Also depends on the restaurant: some pool tips b/t the entire waitstaff, some include bussers, some throw a little to the kitchen staff as well, at some it goes all to the individual server.

 

What I don't get is everybody in here complaining about people who do tip those that they consider unworthy. I mean, it is my money I am spending why do you care?

 

I don't get it either. Like somebody said earlier, I don't need the dollar or 3 as much as they do.

 

Well, I tip just because I use to wait tables...HOwever, I am the worst critic so my tips aren't as generous if I fell the service sux...

As for takeout, typically its customary for 10% as the waiter/waitress does prepare and organzie everything...

Now one of the things I still question is buffets or cafeterias...I still tip, but 10% as I get the food, but they just refill drinks and such...

 

That's more than putting food in a styrofoam box. I tip buffet servers a couple of dollars. At least they take my plate and get me refills. Takeout does nothing.

 

Fair enough...I think I'm just cheap...

 

Believe it or not, I actually tip according to the level of service I receive.

I have left huge tips and I have left very measly tips.