10 Clever Ways Restaurants Subtly Encourage Higher Tips
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Restaurants and servers have mastered the art of subtly encouraging guests to leave bigger tips, often without ever needing to make a direct request. These tactics range from gentle, unnoticed nudges that make tipping feel natural to strategies that can create a sense of obligation.
Some of these techniques might go entirely under the radar, while others may leave you wondering if you were gently steered toward a higher gratuity. Here’s a look at some of the most common and clever ways restaurants encourage more generous tipping.
Build a Rapport
In many restaurants, you might notice the server stopping by regularly or engaging in friendly conversation. This approach helps create a warm connection with guests, subtly encouraging a more generous tip. It’s a common tactic aimed at boosting tips by building rapport.
High Default Tip Suggestions
When it’s time to settle the bill, you may notice the server swivels a tablet screen toward you, displaying tip options like 15%, 20%, or 25%. This setup can create a sense that tipping is expected, adding a layer of pressure to choose one of the suggested amounts. It’s a subtle tactic that many restaurants use to nudge patrons into leaving a tip, regardless of the service quality.
“On the House” Extras
Offering complimentary items like chips or bread can create a sense of gratitude, encouraging customers to reciprocate with a tip.
Not Splitting Checks for Large Groups
When it comes to larger parties, many restaurants avoid splitting the bill into smaller amounts for each person. Managing multiple checks can be cumbersome, so they often limit large tables to one or two checks, adding a mandatory 20% gratuity. This approach streamlines the process for the restaurant and helps ensure a fair tip.
Small Gift with the Check
Including a mint or candy with the bill fosters a feeling of appreciation, making customers more likely to tip generously in return.
A Warm “Thank You”
Saying “Thank You” or “Hope you enjoyed everything” before payment subtly reinforces a positive experience and encourages customers to leave a gratuity.
Encouraging Credit Card Use
People are often more generous with tips when using a credit card, as it’s harder to justify tipping below the usual 20% without the physical limitation of cash on hand. By encouraging card payments, restaurants can help servers receive higher tips overall.
Confirming Your Order
Servers who repeat orders back to customers often see an increase in tips. This small act of reassurance can make a positive impression and lead to more generous tipping.
Personal Notes on Receipts
Adding a personal note or smiley face on the receipt can create a sense of connection, encouraging customers to tip more generously.
Highlighting Special Dishes
Servers may introduce the restaurant’s specials with enthusiasm, sometimes omitting the price, which can subtly increase the bill—and thus, the tip.
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