Path: news.eternal-september.org!eternal-september.org!.POSTED!not-for-mail
From: Ed P <esp@snet.n>
Newsgroups: rec.food.cooking
Subject: Re: On tipping for coffee
Date: Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:23:42 -0400
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On 3/13/2025 2:55 PM, Lenona wrote:
> Q: I bought a drink at a coffee shop that came to $4.22 with tax. I was
> presented with three tip options: $1, $2 or $3 — 25%, 50% or 75%,
> respectively.
> 
> Since there weren’t any seats left in the shop, and therefore I was
> taking my coffee to go (thus reducing the need to clean off a table or
> otherwise deal with my presence in the store), I tipped $1 (25%).
> 
> The barista glared at me as though I’d insulted her, and looked like
> she’d been slapped in the face.
> 
> What am I missing? I realize coffee shop workers aren’t rich, but my job
> doesn’t pay extravagant wages, either. I tip more when I consume my
> drink in the shop, or when I pose some kind of inconvenience to the
> staff.
> 
> 
> A: When it comes to tipping, which is supposed to be a compliment, it is
> almost impossible not to insult someone somehow.
> 
> I once found myself giving offense by tipping a hotel worker for storing
> my luggage. It seems that he was a manager, and thus above accepting
> tips — a stance I admire but rarely encounter.
> 
> The tip I will give you is to tip in cash. Doing it electronically, and
> in full view of the other party, is designed to shame the customer into
> being more generous than intended. Better not to fall for it.

Easy decision for me.  I'd hand her a $5 bill, grab the coffee and go.