In business and in life, we appreciate the help of others. Have you been wondering how much to leave as a gratuity? The following are general tipping guidelines:
Restaurants
Wait service (sit down): 15-20%, pre-tax
Wait service (buffet): 10%, pre-tax
Host or Maitre d': No obligation for greeting you or showing you to your table. $10-$20 for going above and beyond to find you table on busy night or on occasion, if you are regular patron.
Take Out: No obligation; 10% for extra service (curb delivery) or large, complicated order
Home Delivery: 10-15% of bill; $2-$5 for pizza delivery depending on size of order and difficulty of delivery.
Bartender: $1-$2 per drink or 15-20% of tab
Tipping Jars: No obligation; tip occasionally if server or barista provides a little something extra or if you are regular customer.
Restroom Attendant: $0.50-$3, depending on level of service
Valet: $2-$5. Tip when car is returned to you.
Travel
Skycap: $2 first bag, $1 per additional bag
Doorman: $1-$4 for carrying luggage; $1-$2 for hailing cab; $1-$4 beyond the call of duty
Bellhop: $2 first bag, $1 per additional bag;$2-$3 for each additional service
Housekeeper: $2-$5 per day, left daily with note marked "Housekeeping -- Thank you"
Concierge: No obligation for answering questions. $5-$10 for tickets or restaurant reservations; $15 for hard-to-get tickets or reservations (or 10-20% of ticket price).
Taxi Driver: 15-20% of fare, minimally $1; $2 for first bag carried, $1 per additional bag
Salon/Spa
Hair Salon: 15-20%
Manicurist: 15-20%
Facial/Waxing/Massage: 15-20%
Hopefully this will help decrease the stress of rewarding those who help you!
Source: General Tipping Guide, Emily Post Institute