Quick etiquette query

Assuming the service is prompt and friendly, do I tip the carhop at my local Sonic?

 

That's assault, brutha.

 

I wouldn't think tips are normally given at Sonic. So, no.

 

Ah, yes, I've wondered about that myself. Sometimes I tip, sometimes I don't. If it's just a Route 44 cherry limeade, probably not. If it's a whole meal, probably a dollar. They need to post a sign saying what the etiquette is.

 

Only if they're on roller skates/blades.

I only tip regularly at places where they are paid the waitstaff wage (something stupid like $2.15/hour in anticipation of tips). Sonic and Starbucks both get paid full wage. I've asked.

 

Case closed.

 

Totally agree with the skates argument, if not they can fend for themselves.

 

I usually give a buck. I figure, why not? But no, I don't think you're really required or expected to tip.

 

Please, tip them. If they are working hard, tip them.

 

I do, generally. Either the coin change or a buck... sometimes both if its shitty out..

 

I work hard. Nobody tips me.

Non smart-ass answer: there is a reason that certain types of food-service jobs are not paid the waitstaff wage - no tips are expected. Sonic, Cold Stone, Starbucks, the local burrito place, etc. are all paid at full wage.

Tipping people in those positions means you should tip the retail person who finds your size, the stock kid at Toys 'R Us, the cashier at the grocery store, the one-hour photo technician, etc.

Waitstaff, cocktail servers, etc. should absolutely be tipped, and the more the better. Tips are expected when they make the below-minimum waitstaff wage.

 

This is just my personal opinion - nothing more, nothing less. I've decided this year, that if I am going to spend "X" amount of tipping money a year, that it's going to be spread around a little more evenly. I am disappointed in seeing mediocre service in high-end restaurants, and paying $40 - $60 for a large bill, when the service seems desultory at best. Some of that money is now going to the donut shop owner, or the girl at Subway last week, whom I gave a $10, while she was working a long line of people, many who seemed to have a speech impediment. More to the busboy at Souplantation, less to Hans at the trendy restaurants my wife likes to go to once in a while.

Just my opinion.