How do I pay my tips in New York?

Paying Tips in New York: A Convenient and Discreet Guide

In the vibrant city of New York, where dining out is an integral part of the cultural experience, it’s customary to show your appreciation for exceptional service by leaving a gratuity, commonly known as a tip. While tipping etiquette may vary slightly from place to place, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pay your tips discreetly and efficiently:

Step 1: Calculate Your Tip

Customarily, a tip ranges between 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill amount. To calculate your tip, multiply the pre-tax total by the desired percentage. For example, if your pre-tax bill is $100 and you want to tip 20%, your tip would be $100 x 0.20 = $20.

Step 2: Place Your Card Discreetly

If you prefer to pay your tip using a credit or debit card, place it discreetly on the plate or in the provided booklet. This allows the server to process the payment without any awkwardness.

Step 3: Sign the Receipt

Once the server has processed the payment, they will return your card along with a receipt. Review the receipt carefully to ensure that the tip amount is correct. Then, sign the receipt to authorize the transaction.

Step 4: Keep a Copy for Your Records

The server will provide you with a copy of the receipt for your records. This serves as proof of payment and can be useful for expense tracking purposes.

Additional Tips:

• If you’re paying with cash, it’s customary to leave the tip in the provided booklet or on the table.
• If you’re not satisfied with the service, you may adjust the tip amount accordingly. However, it’s always recommended to be polite and respectful.
• In New York, it’s generally not necessary to declare your tip to the server. They will assume that the amount you provide is intended as a gratuity.

By following these steps, you can pay your tips discreetly and efficiently, ensuring that the server receives their well-deserved compensation. Remember, tipping is a way of expressing your appreciation for the hard work and service provided by restaurant staff.