How Much You Should Tip At A Buffet (And If You Even Need To) - Tasting Table

"Tipping for food service is a fraught subject. Especially in the United States, the vast majority of servers rely on tips to supplement their very low wages. But with the advent of Apple Pay and other tappable, swipeable payment methods, tipping options have begun to appear seemingly everywhere - at the coffee shop counter, in retail stores, and when you check out at the counter at your favorite buffet."

"So, do you really have to tip at a buffet? It's basically a restaurant but without most of the service part. According to Emily Post, a 10% tip is appropriate at a buffet restaurant. Often, your table still has a designated server to bring you drinks and silverware, clear plates, and make sure you have everything you need. While 10% is a far cry from the 15-20% expected for full service restaurants,"

"That being said, many people have strong (and differing!) opinions on the matter, as evidenced by the responses to a Reddit thread about tipping at a buffet. Some suggest that if you go with a large group, you should tip more - around 20%. Others aren't inclined to tip at all at a buffet. One responder who works at a "100% self-serve cafeteria-style buffet" said they aren't even allowed to accept tips."

Tipping for food service is common practice in the United States because many servers rely on tips to supplement low wages. Apple Pay and other tap-to-pay methods have introduced tipping prompts in more places, including buffets. Emily Post recommends a 10% tip for buffet restaurants when servers clear plates, bring drinks, and provide basic table service. Tipping expectations vary: some patrons expect 20% for large groups while others tip nothing at fully self-serve cafeterias where staff cannot accept tips. The appropriate tip depends on the actual level of service provided, from paying at the door and bussing one's own table to being seated and attended by servers.

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