If you're heading to the Big Apple, you'll want to brush up on NYC tipping culture. It can be difficult to know what to tip and when in NYC. Tipping incorrectly can be embarrassing and can even end up leaving a bad impression of tourists in the city.
No worries - our blog series on tipping on the website HowMuchTip.com will give you the scoop on NYC tipping etiquette. From restaurants and bars to transportation and entertainment, you'll get all the information you need to navigate the Big Apple with confidence and like a local.
Make sure you don't forget the basics - you should always be prepared to tip 20% on the pre-tax amount of the bill at restaurants unless you're unhappy with the service, 10% or less for bar tabs for a beverage and around $2 for a taxi. Read on for all the specifics on tipping in New York City so you can feel confident the next time you decide to visit!
Tipping at restaurants is based on the quality of service and quality of food. A general tip is 20% of the cost before taxes, however, you can always adjust the amount you hand over depending on how satisfied you are. Here are a few scenarios that call for additional tipping:
- If the service was especially timely and helpful, you may want to go above the 20% general rule
- If you’re part of a large group, it’s a great idea to tip a bit extra or add a gratuity fee to the bill to show your appreciation for extra help
- For an upscale dining experience, you may want to tip closer to 25%
At a bar, you typically tip $1 per drink - minimum - for your drinks, but in some cases can go up to $2 or $3 per drink. If your bartender has gotten you several drinks already, then the minimum $1 will do. However, you can tip as much as you want, even 10% of the total bill should you be so inclined.
Tipping a taxi driver is expected but isn’t always required. Usually you should tip around $2 for a shorter journey, or $3-5 for slightly longer trips. When it comes to Ubers and other ride sharing services, tipping is entirely optional, so go with whatever you’re comfortable with.
When it comes to beauty services tips can range from 15-20%. This includes hairdressers, nail technicians, massage therapists, spa packages and more.It’s important to note that most salons take credit cards, however, many don’t include the tip amount in the total of your bill. Therefore, at the end of your services the technician will expect you to pay the total amount including the tip, so make sure you have money handy when paying.
If you are visiting New York City and plan to stay in a hotel, then it may be expected that you tip at least $2-3 per night. This can include helpful concierge services, housekeeping and valet services. It’s important to keep in mind that if you have any additional requests, like express checkout, late checkout, special service, etc., you may want to consider tipping a bit extra.
Tipping at entertainment venues is usually expected and is a nice thing to do to show your appreciation. For example, if you go to a live concert you’ll likely be expected to tip the usher, but it’s up to you how much you want to give. Other examples like your Broadway show ushers, station musicians or any street performers may also expect a tip in appreciation for their performance.
When it comes to delivery, tipping is expected and is usually around 10-15% of the total bill for orders around $30 or more. For smaller orders, tipping is always appreciated, and a few dollars should suffice. When it comes to take-out orders, it is not expected but is appreciated by whoever took your order. A few more dollars or a percentage of your bill should suffice.
In conclusion, tipping is an important part of many service industries, and it's important to know what to expect. Tipping at restaurants is based on the quality of service and food, and is typically around the 20% rule. At bars, the general rule is $1 per drink, but the amount can vary depending on the quality of service. At taxis and Ubers, it's up to you how much you want to tip or if you want to tip at all, but typically it is expected. When it comes to beauty services, tip generally ranges from 15-20%, and for hotels, it's expected to tip $2-3 per night. Lastly, for entertainment and delivery/take-out services, tipping is usually appreciated and is a nice way to show your appreciation.
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