Understanding Tipping Culture: A Discussion on Dining Etiquette

Let’s talk about tipping. It’s a topic that sparks a lot of opinions, especially when it comes to dining out. Recently, a TikTok user shared strong views on this matter, capturing the attention of many online. This video has been watched over 10,000 times, highlighting the discussion around tipping customs in the United States.

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it has become a norm. Many folks feel frustrated because a standard tip of 15-20% is expected, and anything less can seem inadequate.

Enter Lillie, a restaurant worker, better known on TikTok as @mylasoasis_. She recently made some waves with a video stating that if you can’t tip your waiter, perhaps you shouldn’t be dining out.

In her video, Lillie shares a simple message: “Eating out is a privilege, not a right.” She points out that if affording a 20% tip on your bill is an issue, eating out might not be for you.

One major point Lillie discusses is how American servers are paid. Contrary to some beliefs, she and about 1.6 million other servers in the country live with similar realities. “You can complain that your boss should pay you more, but this is America,” Lillie says. Her words bring to light her situation, “I earn $3.63 from the restaurant. Tips are my source of income.”

Lillie also explains the pricing strategy in restaurants, where menu prices are kept lower, expecting patrons to leave tips. “Food is cheaper because tipping is anticipated,” she notes. In her view, if tipping isn’t affordable, dining at home or opting for fast food might be better choices. She compares it to hiring a nanny: if one can’t afford to pay the full cost, perhaps one should reconsider the need.

If you can’t compensate someone fully, similar to a nanny’s wages, Lillie suggests that dining at a restaurant might not be justifiable. Her advice—grab takeaway or visit a fast-food place instead—was a firm conclusion.

The sentiments weren’t just in her video. The caption read, “To those saying we deserve higher pay… We aren’t getting it. Your service experience worsens without tips!” Her words stirred many to share their opinions in the comments.

One person agreed they tip but felt Lillie’s words were entitled, suggesting she find a job with a better hourly wage that doesn’t require the hustle. They remarked, “The entitlement is absurd. Find a job that pays hourly and doesn’t have you running around.” Another echoed the idea, “If your wage isn’t supportive, seek other employment.” Some found the whole debate outlandish.

There were those who stood by Lillie’s perspective and shared their own tales. As one articulated, “We earn $2.13 hourly and don’t get paid if we’re not tipping. SAY IT LOUDER,” another supportive commenter encouraged.

Another suggestion was to focus on businesses paying proper wages if tipping isn’t agreeable. However, some felt a fixed 20% isn’t always justified, especially when service is lacking. As a user put it, “I tip based on service. Normally a 20% or more, but not if the service was poor.”

All in all, this conversation continues to engage many online, reflecting diverse viewpoints on restaurant tipping. Whether for or against, it’s a debate that invites everyone to reflect on their dining habits and recognize the broader implications of tipping in the service industry.