A Newcomer's Guide to Canadian Tipping Culture
Tipping was not a foreign concept to me upon arriving in Canada. However, having come from a place where it is not customary, I found myself perplexed about the appropriate amounts for various services. While tipping is not obligatory in Canada, it is customary. After a bit of research, I discovered the general practices outlined below.
Restaurant:
Tipping at restaurants is customary in Canada. Consider tipping 15% of the bill for satisfactory service and 20% for exceptional service. However, if the service falls short, it is acceptable to tip 10% or less.
Some restaurants may include a gratuity or service charge on the bill for larger groups. It's essential to check the bill carefully to avoid double-tipping in such cases.
Tipping for Takeout:
Although tipping for counter service is generally not expected, many people choose to leave a small tip for takeout orders, especially if the service was exceptional or if the order required special accommodations.
Bartender:
When enjoying drinks at a bar, consider tipping $1 per drink or 15% to 20% of the total bill for good service.
Cafes and Coffee Shops:
For service at cafes, tipping 15% to 20% of the bill is customary, especially for table service or if the barista goes above and beyond.
Food Delivery:
For food delivery services, a tip of around 15% of the total bill is considered generous.
Bellhop and Luggage Assistance:
When staying at a hotel, it's customary to tip between $1 to $2 per bag for bellhop or luggage assistance, potentially more for heavier bags.
Housekeeping Services:
Leaving a tip of $2 to $5 per day for the housekeeper is appreciated. Place the tip on the bed or side table, accompanied by a "Thank You" note if you wish.
Taxi Driver:
For taxi rides, tipping between 10% to 15% of the fare or rounding up to the nearest $5 is customary.
Salons & Spas:
When receiving services at salons or spas, tipping 15% to 20% of the total bill is standard practice.
Things to keep in mind:
Tipping is customary but not mandatory in Canada.
Calculate the tip based on the total before tax.
Counter service generally does not require tipping.
Tipping is at the customer's discretion and should reflect the quality of service received.
Remember, tipping in Canada is a cultural norm rather than a strict rule. It's ultimately up to you to decide when and how much to tip based on your experience and the level of service provided. By understanding these tipping practices, newcomers can navigate Canadian hospitality with confidence and respect.
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