A grandad has sparked a row about tipping after repeatedly leaving a 'tiny' amount - or sometimes none at all - after meals out, regardless of how good the service is. The debate was sparked after a comment by someone on the MoneySavingExpert's Money Moral Dilemma page.
The sender wrote in about their grandfather, with whom they go out for dinner 'every couple of months'. But the grandfather only tips a small amount, regardless of the quality of service. Sometimes he does not tip at all.
When confronted, the grandad either 'laughs it off' or claims he 'forgot'. The full post reads: "Every couple of months my grandad and I go for dinner and split the bill, but he often leaves a tiny tip- or none - even when the food and service are good.
"I end up leaving more so the staff get a reasonable tip. I've mentioned it, as I know he can afford it, but he laughs it off or says he forgot. It's not about the money, it's about showing appreciation. Should I push him to tip more, or accept it's his choice?"
Commenters side with the grandad
In the comments, most of the people sided with the grandad. "Let the man have his choice and just enjoy spending the time with him," said one person. "I don’t tip at all, so I am on the side of your grandad. We aren’t in America," said another.
One said: "It's his choice. He has paid for his food and it's not a given. They all get paid," while a fourth said: "No need to tip. If they do a good job, the employer should increase their wages."
"I stopped tipping because it seems like everywhere now has a preincluded service charge on the bill…" said a fifth. Another comment simply added: "If this is worrying you, wait till you get a big problem! Jeez, enjoy the time together!"
UK tipping culture explained
Describing tipping culture in the UK, The Getaway Guide said: "If you’re visiting the United Kingdom for the first time, it can be hard to know when to tip and how much to leave. When you’re used to American tipping culture, it can seem strange that Brits don’t tend to tip as often or as generously, especially if this is your first visit to the UK."
Tipping is also a great way to show your appreciation for their hard work and good service. Tipping culture in the UK isn’t as prevalent as in the USA. 10 per cent of the bill is the standard tip amount in high-end hotels and most restaurants. A small cash tip is more appropriate in bars, cafes and family-run hotels. Tipping isn’t standard in budget and most mid-range hotels, public transport or fast food restaurants. 'Keep the change' is appropriate for cab drivers and bar staff.
"Although tipping hospitality staff is customary in UK restaurants and bars, how you tip varies between establishments. Some sit-down restaurants add an automatic service charge to your bill or allow you to add a tip to the amount you pay. However, a lot of places still accept a cash gratuity."
Tips in UK restaurants may seem small compared to the local customs in countries like the United States. That’s because UK restaurant owners must pay their staff at least the National Living Wage.
"So, the rule of thumb here is to tip 10 per cent of the total amount. This gratuity is often put into a shared tip jar and split with the kitchen staff. Of course, you can leave more than 10% if you feel you received exceptional service."
In places like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and Chicago, 20 per cent is often expected. That is because, while the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, for employees who receive gratuities, this drops to just $2.13 (£1.57) per hour.
Interestingly, in Iceland, there has long been a broad social consensus that employers are responsible for paying their staff decent wages. However, with more and more Americans visiting - and leaving tips - more Icelandic retailers are inviting locals to tip, annoying many.
