A server's social media post about tipping on top of mandatory gratuity has drawn sharp reactions this week. The discussion centers on bills that include an automatic service charge, often labeled as 'gratuity,' and whether additional tipping is expected.
On Sunday night in Midtown, several diners at a casual Italian restaurant expressed confusion over a 20% service fee printed on their check. One customer, who declined to give her name, said she was unsure if she should leave more. The manager on duty said the fee is distributed among staff but that extra tips are common.
Industry observers note that the number of restaurants adding service charges has increased, especially at large tables or in tourist-heavy areas. These charges typically appear as a line item, but the language used can vary. Some diners report feeling pressured to add more, even when gratuity is already included.
The timing of the controversy coincides with the late-summer rush, as outdoor dining crowds swell and staff shortages persist in parts of Manhattan and Brooklyn. Hospitality union representatives say clear communication is needed, as customers and workers both face economic uncertainty.
State law does not prohibit suggested gratuity, but consumer advocates urge restaurants to clarify their policies. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection has received complaints about unclear billing, but no formal action has been announced this month.