Los Angeles is a world-class dining city and, like all destinations, has its own unique culture. From different customs around tipping to unfamiliar foods, there are a few holiday moments that might cause newcomers to stumble. But with a few insider tips, dining in the City of Angels can be smooth sailing.
In this article, we'll break down the norms for tipping in Los Angeles and provide some local insight into establishing generosity when it comes to tipping. We'll also explain when and where being generous with gratuity is appreciated. With these pointers, you'll be ready to explore the vast and varied culinary landscape of Los Angeles with confidence.
Tipping in restaurants in Los Angeles is expected and customary. It is standard protocol to leave a gratuity of at least 15-20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. If a patron has received particularly good service, or had an unforgettable experience, they might even leave a 25-30% tip. It is also typical to tip extra for large parties or to include an additional gratuity for to-go orders.
In Los Angeles, it is customary to tip taxi drivers when using their services. Most patrons will tip 10-15% of the fare, or at least round up or add a few extra dollars. It is particularly appreciated to tip well if the taxi driver helps a patron with their luggage, speaks to them courteously, drives in snowy or difficult conditions, or listens to their instructions carefully.
When visiting a barber or hairstylist in Los Angeles, it is polite to leave a gratuity of 15–20%. Special tips are often given for complicated styles or prestigious treatments such as cutting, coloring, hot towel treatments, etc. Most customers leave a tip regardless of whether they are thrilled with the outcome or not, as it is important for barbers and stylists to know that their work does not go unrecognized and appreciated.
Tipping tour guides in Los Angeles is commonplace, as their professionalism and expertise greatly enhances a patron’s experience. Depending on the quality and duration of the tour, patrons will tip a minimum of 10-20% of the tour price. If a patron has received exceptional service from a tour guide that has made a memorable impression, they are encouraged to leave a larger gratuity.
In Los Angeles, it is polite to tip hotel valet staff for parking and retrieving a patron’s car. Most hotel guests will tip between $2-5 for the service, or more depending on how far the car must be brought. Tipping bellhops is also customary, and most patrons tip between $1-2 for each bag they are carrying. A tip of $5-10 per stay is also appreciated, especially if the patron receives exceptional service.
Tip-based gratuities continue to be the standard in Los Angeles despite the commencement of the abolitionist movement. Though it is largely up to the individual to determine how best to show appreciation for good service, it is advised that customers use their discretion and consider the quality of each service when deciding how much to tip. Overall, persons visiting or residing in Los Angeles should be aware of the common tipping practices in their area and practice them to demonstrate respect and appreciation to those who have extended service to them.
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