Tipping in New York City can be tricky, but it’s an essential part of having a smooth experience at bars, restaurants, and while out on a pub crawl. In the U.S., tipping is not only expected but also a crucial way service staff earn their wages. If you don’t tip, or don’t tip properly, it could negatively impact your experience. Let’s break down how tipping works and why it matters.
Why Tipping Matters
In the U.S., bartenders and servers typically earn a small hourly wage, often well below the minimum wage, with tips making up the majority of their income. So, when you’re out enjoying yourself, tipping is not just a courtesy—it’s how the staff are compensated. If you’re hesitant or refuse to tip, it will affect how you’re served and could make your night out less enjoyable.
For bar service, the standard is $1 per drink. If you’re in a high-traffic tourist area, make sure a tip isn’t already included in your bill—this can happen in some spots. But at most bars, especially in cities like New York, tipping $1 per drink is the rule. If you’re ordering food, 20% of your total bill is the norm for tipping. It’s helpful to think of tipping as just another part of the cost, rather than something extra.
How Tipping Works
It’s important to tip as you go rather than waiting until the end of the night, unless you’re a regular and have a relationship with the bartender. If you’re paying with a card, rest assured the bartender will trust you to leave a tip at the end of your tab, but they may be cautious until they see it. A smart move is to start off by tipping a little extra on your first drink to set a positive tone for the night—you’ll likely get better service and well-poured drinks afterward.
If your tab is getting higher or you’re ordering more expensive items, switch to the 20% rule. For example, if you’ve ordered a meal and some drinks, calculate 20% of the total bill, and use that as your guide.
Avoid Bad Tipping Habits
One of the worst things you can do is leave a very small tip, like 25 cents. It’s better to leave nothing than to insult the staff with such a low amount. Also, don’t pretend that you don’t know about tipping—it’s better to ask if you’re unsure.
Remember that tipping etiquette varies for different types of service. There’s no need to tip at fast food chains like Starbucks or Subway, but always tip your taxi driver and food delivery person. For counter service, tipping is generally not required.
The Physical Act of Tipping
If you’re unfamiliar with the act of tipping, don’t worry—it’s straightforward. When you’re at the bar, leave your tip at the far edge of the bar where you were served. The bartender will know it’s from you, and no one will take it.
Tipping properly will ensure you have a smooth, enjoyable experience, whether you’re on a pub crawl or exploring the city’s nightlife. Just remember, good service deserves good tips, and your generosity will often come back to you in the form of better service.
