What is a service charge?! (at a restaurant!) Do i still leave a tip?!?!?

Question

Im having a party, and the restaurant is charging me a service charge because my party is larger than 5- IS A SERVICE CHARGE A TIP? Should i still leave a tip in addition to the service charge?!! SOMEONE PLEASE EXPLAIn!

Answer 1

always tip your waitress ... even if they suck

Answer 2

Yes, a service charge is a tip, you dont need to leave anything else, but it is welcome.

If ever in doubt, just ask your server.

Answer 3

You should just ask your server if the gratuity is included.  It would be awful to not tip the waitress becuase of a misunderstanding.

Answer 4

Probaley should leave small tip, if your server does a good job

if not, no tip, because of the service charge

Answer 5

At the restaurant where I work, a service charge is a fee charged directly by the restaurant - and does NOT include gratuity.

Answer 6

A service charge is typically for something the restaurant does that goes beyond their typical customer service, like adding a fee for delivery or carry out or extra to-go containers. Because you are having a "party", they will most likely be dedicating a waiter to your table, and he/she won't be able to service their normal amount of tables during your meal. Also, you will more than likely be occupying more than one table - another potential loss for the restaurant - one larger party rather than 2-3 or more smaller parties. Where I am, the limit is usually 8 or more people at a table for this service charge, and it is considered the gratuity.

When you get there before the party, just ask the manager if the tip is included in the service charge. I am sure they are asked this quite frequently. And, even if the tip is included, if your server(s) give you excellent service, tip them a little extra at the end of the meal.