Tipping Etiquette

I don't know who came up with the rules for tipping and who decided to change them in the last ten years but I hold to the older rules for tipping and suggest everyone do the same.  It only changes if you let it.

No Service - 0% - When there is literally no servce such as at Wendy's or Taco Bell or when the service is to the point where you wonder if there was supposed to be service and you just don't see any.

Horrible Service - 0% - When you know there is service but it seems like you've been forgotten or when the service is so poor that you wish you could just walk out without even eating the food which wasn't right in the first place.  Also held for the times when you notice the server paying special attention to another table and poor attention to yours.  If the server argues with you.

Poor Service - 5% - The server can't seem to get things quite right although they're tried. The server may not be cut out for this kind of job and it shows.

Normal Service - 10% - The server is ok but not good.  You may have to wait a little for a refill but the food is right.  Nothing special but nothing too bad.

Good Service - up to 15% - The server is pleasant and helpful, has refills before you are ever out and the visit runs smoothly.  If a problem comes up you don't have to wait to have it resolved. You would want this server again next time you visit.

Exceptional Service - No limit - This is where you have been treated really well and everything you could ask for was done.  It may feel like they're reading your mind.  Be mindful of the restaurant you are at though. High class restaurants should feel this way normally and I would still only tip 10-15 in these cases but at $80 a plate I don't think that's a big problem.

Just be aware that you are the one being served and that a tip is how much you appreciate it.  Don't be afraid of making it show either good or bad.  One of the best things you can do in any case is letting the manager know how you liked the service. This is of course on top of the tip but has the effect of really hitting home with them what kind of service they are providing and in any case motivates them to try harder.