Tipping Expected

Why do some restaurants allow the wait staff to ask if you want change when paying in cash at the end of a meal? Perhaps it is because I might be leaving the change as a gratuity so why bring it back to the table if that will be the outcome? Because it is part of the service!

We never ask the staff if they require a tip, but it could happen the next time I'm asked about my change.

When does it become a servers right to expect a gratuity. I would think never. After all, we as consumers make purchases almost daily whether for groceries, , gifts, clothing etc. and the only persons asking if we require change is wait staff in some restaurants. If when you went into, let's say, The Bay and made a purchase would you expect the person that assisted you to ask that question? Wouldn't we be horrified if they did? What do you mean, do I need change? Why would I not, it's my money. Have I given you enough to more than cover the expense of my purchase? Is there some reason I would not like to receive my change.

Don't tell me it occurs because wait staff need the tips to make up for a small base wage. That has nothing to do with me as the customer. I believe the wage a person is paid is for basic service. When the service is over and above what is required, that is the basis for a gratuity. I'm not suggesting that bowing and scraping is expected. Checking on the meal served, is it as ordered? Is there anything else I can bring you at this time? Not, plop it on the table and never return.

I would never hold the wait person responsible for food not cooked properly but I do believe they have a hand in presentation. A tidy plate, is a great first impression. Returning to the table to make sure the customer has everything they require, dessert, another glass of wine, more coffee, extra cream etc. These are the services that warrant a gratuity.


How about the "tip" jar? The butcher doesn't have one, so why does the person that puts the ice cream in the cone have one? Am I missing something here? Are we a nation of people with an over developed sense of entitlement or are we just headed that way. Should we be paid extra for everything we do? Where do we draw the line?