Tipping Etiquette: What You Need to Know Right Now

Tip talk can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, ordering delivery, or celebrating a birthday with a cake, knowing the right amount saves you embarrassment and makes servers happy. Below you’ll find the core rules, quick calculation tricks, and a few edge‑cases that most people forget.

When and Where to Tip

Most places that provide personal service expect a tip. Restaurants, cafes, bars, food‑delivery apps, rideshare drivers, and even hotel housekeeping fall into that group. The key is to look for a clear sign—either a tip jar, a line on the receipt, or a prompt in the app. If you’re at a self‑serve bakery like Costco’s cake counter, a tip isn’t required, but a small extra for big orders is always appreciated.

Some spots don’t expect tips at all: fast‑food counters, grocery store delis, and places where you pay a service charge (often a 10‑15% “gratuity”). If a service charge is already added, you can skip the extra tip unless the service was exceptional.

How Much to Tip

The classic rule of thumb for sit‑down restaurants is 15‑20% of the pre‑tax total. If the service is slow or you’re super happy with a special dessert, adjust accordingly. For casual cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% works fine.

Delivery drivers usually get 10‑15% of the order cost, but if the weather’s bad or the distance is long, bump it up a few dollars. Rideshare drivers often get a $1‑$2 tip for short trips and 10‑15% for longer rides.

Hotel housekeeping: $2‑$5 per night left in an envelope works. If you’re staying for a week, a larger total tip at checkout shows appreciation for consistent work.

Remember, these are guidelines, not laws. Trust your gut—if a server went above and beyond, a bigger tip is a simple way to say thanks.

Got a big birthday cake order from Costco? While no tip is required, adding a few bucks for the baker’s extra effort on custom decorations is a nice gesture. It’s the same principle: reward the person who makes your treat special.

In short, tip where you get personal service, aim for 10‑20% depending on the setting, and let the quality of service guide the final amount. Keep a few cash bills handy, use the calculator on your phone for quick percentages, and you’ll never be stuck wondering what to do.

Now that you’ve got the basics, you can focus on the fun part—enjoying your dessert without worrying about the tip. Happy eating and happy tipping!