Question

I ordered dinner from a local restaurant, trying to support local places. I picked it up at curbside. As the employee brought it out and I paid, he asked me if I wanted to tip. I was bit taken aback. Is it customary to now tip someone to walk the food out of the restaurant? If so, and I am just a bit out of this new tipping etiquette, is it an expected 20 percent?  

Answer 1

We do a carry out about once a week and we always do a really nice tip. we figure most of their income used to be tips, so they are probably making very little right now. Not saying you’re wrong if you don’t, just what we have decided.  

Answer 2

Uh no. I wouldn’t tip to have someone walk it over. They should be thankful you were nice enough to support their business. I think that’s quite nervy of them.  

Answer 3

I think it’s more expected right now because of the circumstance. Limited hours. Limited staff. Limited revenue. It is odd that they said anything though.  

Answer 4

I am not questioning WHY I should tip. I am asking what is the etiquette for it? At a restaurant, the server serves me several times. Takes my order, brings my food, refills my drinks, gets me ketchup etc. that is worth 20 percent. A guy walking my bag out is not the same service.  

Answer 5

Curious as well. We did pick up once since all this pandemic started and when we paid it didn't even give us an option on the receipt to add the tip.  

Comments

This is very popular Des Plaines restaurant too.  

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@connelley68 my husband said that it shouldn't be asked of a customer to. tip for pick up since we never tip for pick up. We ordered from a well known breakfast restaurant as well.  

Answer 6

I do tip. I honestly think percentage is up to you. I believe it is becoming the new etiquette.  

Answer 7

I usually give them at least $5 more if I’m having something delivered.  

Answer 8

I've been doing 20% for carry out.  

Answer 9

I always tip when picking up food at a restaurant. Usually $5 or so. Someone has to pack up the order.  

Comments

So I am paying to pack the order? Do you tip the McDonald's drive thru dude? He put my food in the bag.  

Answer 10

Yes of course you should tip! Always I even did when I picked up even before all this. Just me I guess! I know lots of servers, and they get paid in tips.  

Answer 11

Yup always tip, even if you’re picking up