Summary

Tipping in U.S. restaurants has dropped to 19.3%, the lowest in six years, driven by frustration over rising menu prices and increased prompts for tips in non-traditional settings.

Only 38% of consumers tipped 20% or more in 2024, down from 56% in 2021, reflecting tighter budgets.

Diners are cutting back on outings, spending less, and tipping less. Some restaurants are adding service fees, further reducing tips.

Worker advocacy groups are pushing to eliminate the tipped-wage system, while the restaurant industry warns these shifts hurt business and employees.

Key cities like D.C. and Chicago are phasing in higher minimum wages for tipped workers.

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  • felix@pnw.zone
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    14 hours ago

    Here’s the tip reform I want:
    Every restaurant/bar/etc with their staff decides on a default gratuity that represents their service standards/aspirations.

    Menu prices must include this gratuity. (And include taxes - why not.)

    At time of payment, the customer can choose how much they want to tip: the default, or some amount more or less.

    Transparent prices. No unwritten rules. Bar staff still make $$. And no disadvantage to restaurants who pay a higher hourly wage instead of tips.