As a business person in the U.S., I tip 15% of the pre-tax meal charge. You should not tip on top of taxes.
If the service meets expectations, I give a 15% tip.
If the service exceeds my expectations, 20-25% is my norm.
If the service is exceptional and coincides with a special occasion, then a 30-50% tip is my norm.
For meals exceeding$100 or parties of more than 10 people, a 20% minimum tip is appropriate.
For large parties, most restaurants include a tipping charge in the bill. Only tip if the restaurant did not include the tipping charge.
For cheap tippers, check out Tarantino’s ’’Reservoir Dogs.’’ There’s a scene in that movie about ’’not tipping’’ that is hilarious! The scene is amusing but most of the argument is flawed.
Remember, waiters are paid horribly by restaurants so much of what they make depends on tips. Also remember that most waiters are young people either in school or pursuing something and choose to wait tables on the side to support themselves.
If you get bad service, it’s the restaurant’s fault for not ensuring proper staffing. Take corrective action by informing the restaurant or ask for another waiter.