DISQUS

It's an interesting argument Darlene. My brother makes the same point at family functions. (Servers should do a good job like everyone else, and be paid hourly. It shouldn't be added to my bill) There are restaurants that pay their staff hourly, and do not require tips; there's a whole industry called fast casual that does this: Pei Wei, Chipotle, Qdoba, Moe's, Panera, Atlanta Bread Co, McCallister's Deli, etc... However, these restaurants are not full service (you order at the counter and get your own refills). I know some states require servers to be paid minimum wage, but I don't know of any full service restaurants here in the states that are set up in the manner you describe. (though there are some like this in Europe)

oh. worst tip? 2.xx on 57.xx (apparently they couldn't go past $60)

lowest was $1.24 on $28.76 (they paid once, tipped 6 on 23, ordered $8 of dessert, and signed the new credit slip with the same number as before.)

Uh, I'm not in your town.. but I saw this on my reader. I wait tables in Nashville TN, and have in Ohio, KY and Missouri as well. Servers' wage in these states is as low as 2.13/hr. (half of minimum) S/S and taxes on what tips I claim (and as a believer, I claim all tips) come out of that hourly amount. In working full time, my checks are $0.00, and have been since May 2008. I work for Tips only. Out of those tips, I tip out the food runners and bartenders a set percentage of sales.

God calls ups to be kind, patient, forgiving and generous. Frugality is not a fruit of the Spirit.

If your service is abysmal, tell the manager. I've called the "how are we doing" # from my table to complain about service at other places. Email corporate. (you can do this from your phone now) But still tip. It's a chance for you to actually offer real grace to someone. You say you're kind and generous; prove it.

Kyle
Server
P.F. Chang's,
Nashville, TN