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Dear Helena,
Every morning I buy a large latte for $3.05 at the same coffeehouse, and each morning I face the same dilemma: to tip or not to tip. Should I tip the same 20 percent that I would on a restaurant meal? That doesn’t seem deserved. Sure, they have to make the beverage, but they don’t have to bring it to my table. And let’s say I do decide to tip 20 percent. That’s only 61 cents. It’s such a paltry sum I feel it’s insulting to the barista to drop it in the tip jar, and I’d almost rather not tip at all. What should I do? —Latte Addict
Dear Latte Addict,
Jacob Grier, a barista at Baked and Wired in Washington, DC, and cowriter of the blog Smelling the Coffee, says he tries to tip a dollar per drink. “You tip a bartender if he creates a good rapport, so why not tip a barista for the same?” Naomi Hunt, manager and co-owner of Murky Waters in Lafayette, Indiana, says customers should tip 75 cents to a dollar, and even more for what she calls “latte art.” This includes “faces, apples, and once, a lion with a mane and whiskers.”
What do you expect them to say? Unfortunately, much as baristas—who sometimes make up to 50 percent of their wages in tips—would like you to, you are not obligated to tip them. Though it’s nice for baristas to express themselves artistically, they shouldn’t expect payment for it, since it’s typically not asked for or expected. Customers don’t say: “I’ll have a nonfat decaf cappuccino with a mandala on top.”
And the bartender analogy doesn’t work. For one thing, bartenders in many states make what’s called a “server’s wage,” that is, less than minimum wage, with the expectation that they will make up the rest of it in tips. Not so baristas, who by law earn at least minimum wage, and sometimes more plus health benefits. Bartenders have also memorized the recipes for a litany of cocktails, and you’re paying for their expertise. If they make you a crappy drink, you can forgo their tip. But if you do, there’s a high likelihood you’ll be ignored for the rest of the night. Unlike tipping baristas, leaving extra money for your bartender is a cultural convention that, should you reject it, you’ll be made to suffer for.
Many people argue that a good barista is a skilled craftsperson, and that it’s hard to make a quality espresso drink. They’re right. A great barista considers everything from how fine the beans are ground to how hard the grinds are tamped to how long it takes to make the shot, how aerated the milk is, and what the milk-to-foam ratio is. There are now competitions around the world in which baristas compete for top honors for the speed, tastiness, and creativity of their coffee concoctions, just like bartenders.
But let’s face it. Not every coffeehouse takes lattes that seriously. Some chains have automated the various steps in making espresso drinks, so all a barista has to do is push a button here, a button there, put a cap on your cup, then call your name. (And, at chain stores especially, stuffing a buck into the tip jar at the cash register doesn’t mean your barista gets the dough.) If you aren’t tipping the girl who makes your half salad/half sandwich combo at a weekday lunch counter, why should a barista at an establishment like that be entitled to a tip?
When it comes to the person who makes your coffee, I say use the same rule of thumb you should use for any food-service counter worker (ice cream scooper, deli sandwich-maker, boulangerie attendant, taqueria employee): If you feel he or she has gone beyond the industry norms, made you laugh, given you something extra she needn’t have, in some way noticeably improved your life, if only for a moment, tip her. How much? The baristas I talked to don’t consider it demeaning if you drop in the coins left over from your purchase. If, like most people, you visit the same coffeehouse over and over again, this is more than a tip—it’s insurance. Sometimes it pays to be remembered as the gal who tips.
Have a Table Manners question? Email Helena. Read more Table Manners.
Back in the day I used to work really hard behind the counter making all sorts of concoctions for people. Sometimes it was really simple and fast, and other times it took more than 5 minutes, sometimes more if your "dairy" needed replenishing. The line would be out the door some days and it didn’t matter if it was mid summer or the dead of winter, there was always a wait. And yeah, I remember...+READ
Back in the day I used to work really hard behind the counter making all sorts of concoctions for people. Sometimes it was really simple and fast, and other times it took more than 5 minutes, sometimes more if your "dairy" needed replenishing. The line would be out the door some days and it didn’t matter if it was mid summer or the dead of winter, there was always a wait. And yeah, I remember having to go thru weeks of training, just to learn how to use the machines and complicated equipment, and it still took me several more months to get things right. We would even have to learn how to take apart, clean every single tiny piece of equipment, and have it reassembled perfectly before the customers could be served. Some of these machine cost over $10K, and if you didn’t set them up right, then they could easily breakdown. The company took the craftsmanship very seriously and we made it an art form, and there was even an annual Olympics to see who was the best of the best.
It was very hard work… it was my job to serve my customers and I took the job, knowing I would be paid slightly higher than minimum wage. It was my responsibility to try my hardest, serve a tasty cup of what ever, and tell everyone on the other side of the counter that we thank them for their business.
I never expected to be tipped… why? Because I worked at Dairy Queen, and I did my job.
Baristas… get over yourselves and put away the tip jar. You don't do anything special that the next art school dropout or 16 year old can't master in a month or two.-COLLAPSE
Why don't we tip every single person who does any thing for us?
Oh that employee showed me the bathroom, here's a dollar.
Thanks for weighing my package postal employee, even though it's you job to do it and you already get paid to do it here's a dollar.
Hey i-tunes, thanks for delivering that audio file to my hard drive. here's an extra dollar.
In Oregon waiters/waitresses make min wage just like baristas. Corin and Brianna pretty much covered what I had wanted to say. For us, the granita mix takes approximately 20 minutes to make if I am not interrupted. You never know the work that goes into things behind the scenes or how much training went into a barista.
Also as someone who tends to tip my baristas well, tipping really does help...+READ
In Oregon waiters/waitresses make min wage just like baristas. Corin and Brianna pretty much covered what I had wanted to say. For us, the granita mix takes approximately 20 minutes to make if I am not interrupted. You never know the work that goes into things behind the scenes or how much training went into a barista.
Also as someone who tends to tip my baristas well, tipping really does help the service and quality and my wallet (kinda). I've been given special discounts and free pastries. Same goes when I am making drinks. Some regulars ask for lots of extra shots, but if they are a good tipper I usually cut the drink price off at $4 when their drink might usually be $4.25. But if they are not a good tipper then they pay $4.25. Or maybe they're having a bad day. A good tipper might get a drink on me. Someone I know is a pain in the butt probably won't. You reap what you sow.-COLLAPSE
I've been a barista for almost 8 years near Seattle. NOT Starbucks.
I am like my fellow baristas here and take the art of espresso very seriously.
I will break tipping down for you plain and simple.
I ALWAYS pay attentions and remember who tips.
My customers would never be able to tell, because I treat everyone with the good service. Any customer is better that no customer.
However......+READ
I've been a barista for almost 8 years near Seattle. NOT Starbucks.
I am like my fellow baristas here and take the art of espresso very seriously.
I will break tipping down for you plain and simple.
I ALWAYS pay attentions and remember who tips.
My customers would never be able to tell, because I treat everyone with the good service. Any customer is better that no customer.
However... for those that don't tip, I will never go out of my way for you. For example, we have a punch card system, buy 12 get a one free. Many people like to "upgrade" on their free one. Our rule of thumb is to get the same drink for your free one. If you don't tip I will tell you tough luck. You can't have a soy mocha today, you get your drip. The people that tip me well will get a gift card from me on xmas. They will get the best quality drink every single time. I will remember them, and try hard to make sure that I get them in and out as quick as possible. For many of my regulars who tip I have their drink ready by the time they're at the window. If you forgot your money that day, I'll give you your drink on loan. I will talk to you more, and appreciate you more.
If you're polite, you'll get a good quality drink every time too, even if you don't tip. But if you're rude and don't tip, and my shots of espresso don't pour perfectly. Then I sure as hell won't take the time to make sure that you get the best quality cup. You'll get mediocre at best.
I rule it all out to karma. Money comes and goes. If you're stingy with your money than generosity will probably not come back around to you.
Tip or no tip, I'm still as sweet as can be. But we remember.
By the way, if you don't want to tip then just go to starbucks. My coffee shops prices are at least a dollar less, we have a punch card system, daily specials, etc. So ya, we expect a little more. Even if you drop all pennies in my jar (which one of my regular favorites does) I consider that tipping. Even a quarter is nice.
But nothing? Come on guys!
It's etiquette.-COLLAPSE
Do you tip your bartender??
In CA, waiters and bartenders get minimum wage.
Why would it be okay to tip a dollar for a poured beer, and not for a coffee drink? You stand at a bar, you wait in line, either way.. how can you go to a coffeehouse on a regular basis and not tip your barista?
I've found consistently that if the customer has a trendy, expensive wallet, bag, or jeans, they do not ever...+READ
Do you tip your bartender??
In CA, waiters and bartenders get minimum wage.
Why would it be okay to tip a dollar for a poured beer, and not for a coffee drink? You stand at a bar, you wait in line, either way.. how can you go to a coffeehouse on a regular basis and not tip your barista?
I've found consistently that if the customer has a trendy, expensive wallet, bag, or jeans, they do not ever tip. CLASSY. Also, their drink order tends to be complicated. It's truly amazing.. shame on them. Their drinks will justifiably be spit in at some point.-COLLAPSE
oops accidentally posted that twice
I've worked at an espresso stand for over 2 years. And the truth is, some people tip and some people don't. The only time that I really get annoyed when people don't tip is when I'm making food or making certain blended drinks.
We make breakfast sandwiches, and yes we actually make them. They aren't pre-made, so they do take time. And when you are making those plus drinks and that person...+READ
I've worked at an espresso stand for over 2 years. And the truth is, some people tip and some people don't. The only time that I really get annoyed when people don't tip is when I'm making food or making certain blended drinks.
We make breakfast sandwiches, and yes we actually make them. They aren't pre-made, so they do take time. And when you are making those plus drinks and that person doesn't tip. I do get annoyed.
As for the comment that another person made on this about how they wouldn't tip if all they were getting is a granita, just because all they are doing is pulling a lever and putting a lid on top, doesn't mean they don't at one point do something that actually requires some effort. Where I work we have a granita machine, but we don't just pour an already pre-made mix in it. We have to actually make the granita with espresso, milk, etc.
Being a barista isn't as easy as some people think. I trained a girl a few months ago who just couldn't get the hang of it. It's a fact that some people can do it and some people can't.
But I will say that most of the time I don't ever actually expect a tip from someone. Especially if it's just drip coffee. But like i said before, if it's blended drinks, like we have the frappe' freeze drinks and the espresso shakes and milkshakes, it's nice when people tip because it shows that they appreciate the time and effort it took to make it.
Now when it comes to espresso shakes and milkshakes, whether you have an ice cream machine or you're scooping ice cream, I've done both, but either way they are still a pain in the ass to do. Especially when people get really picky and lets say want a 20 oz dbl espresso shake w/ caramel and a 20 oz single espresso shake / chocolate, and a 16 oz milkshake. That's a real pain, and it has happened to me, and people still don't tip. I have customers that come in a few times a week and order an espresso shake, but they always tip good because they know that they are a pain to make.
But really it all comes down to a personal choice. But really, I have had times when a person's drink cost $2.96 and they gave me three dollars and actually took their 4 cents back. But tip if you want and don't tip if you don't want to. But any tip no matter how small is always appreciated, because it does add up.-COLLAPSE
I've worked at an espresso stand for over 2 years. And the truth is, some people tip and some people don't. The only time that I really get annoyed when people don't tip is when I'm making food or making certain blended drinks.
We make breakfast sandwiches, and yes we actually make them. They aren't pre-made, so they do take time. And when you are making those plus drinks and that person...+READ
I've worked at an espresso stand for over 2 years. And the truth is, some people tip and some people don't. The only time that I really get annoyed when people don't tip is when I'm making food or making certain blended drinks.
We make breakfast sandwiches, and yes we actually make them. They aren't pre-made, so they do take time. And when you are making those plus drinks and that person doesn't tip. I do get annoyed.
As for the comment that another person made on this about how they wouldn't tip if all they were getting is a granita, just because all they are doing is pulling a lever and putting a lid on top, doesn't mean they don't at one point do something that actually requires some effort. Where I work we have a granita machine, but we don't just pour an already pre-made mix in it. We have to actually make the granita with espresso, milk, etc.
Being a barista isn't as easy as some people think. I trained a girl a few months ago who just couldn't get the hang of it. It's a fact that some people can do it and some people can't.
But I will say that most of the time I don't ever actually expect a tip from someone. Especially if it's just drip coffee. But like i said before, if it's blended drinks, like we have the frappe' freeze drinks and the espresso shakes and milkshakes, it's nice when people tip because it shows that they appreciate the time and effort it took to make it.
Now when it comes to espresso shakes and milkshakes, whether you have an ice cream machine or you're scooping ice cream, I've done both, but either way they are still a pain in the ass to do. Especially when people get really picky and lets say want a 20 oz dbl espresso shake w/ caramel and a 20 oz single espresso shake / chocolate, and a 16 oz milkshake. That's a real pain, and it has happened to me, and people still don't tip. I have customers that come in a few times a week and order an espresso shake, but they always tip good because they know that they are a pain to make.
But really it all comes down to a personal choice. But really, I have had times when a person's drink cost $2.96 and they gave me three dollars and actually took their 4 cents back. But tip if you want and don't tip if you don't want to. But any tip no matter how small is always appreciated, because it does add up.-COLLAPSE
Tipping is a very personal thing. That much should be clear from reading the different opinions of everyone who has commented here. I'm a barista and if I go to another coffee shop that strives for excellence as much as the one I work at or more, I tip better. If you're troubled by the price increase of a cup of drip coffee from 1.70 to 1.85, look around. Gas prices and the cost of your coffee...+READ
Tipping is a very personal thing. That much should be clear from reading the different opinions of everyone who has commented here. I'm a barista and if I go to another coffee shop that strives for excellence as much as the one I work at or more, I tip better. If you're troubled by the price increase of a cup of drip coffee from 1.70 to 1.85, look around. Gas prices and the cost of your coffee are intertwined. How do you think the shop you buy coffee at gets it there? Prices for shipping increase but you expect the cost of a good cup of coffee to stay the same? I wish gas still cost $0.76/gal, but that's never going to happen again. Either drink less coffee (which as a barista, I clearly don't advocate) or accept that everyone's cost of living is increasing. Sadly, the barista you no longer tip has more need of it now.
I understand the idea of baristas choosing to work for low wages and accepting the consequences, but if you prefer your espresso to have a taste of sweet dried apricot and maybe a little toasted nut with hints of caramel and dark chocolate versus tasting like smoke and road tar, expect to shell out a little bit more for the expertise and quality control that goes into crafting such a fine product.-COLLAPSE
As I have posted before, I owe a Coffee House. People come to us because they can tell the difference between Button and craft. They come because my baristas know about coffee. We don't make drinks as hot as you are talking about, it burns the milk.
You are right some people don't pay attention but most of my customers do. I don't expect to much my customers expect me and my baristas to be...+READ
As I have posted before, I owe a Coffee House. People come to us because they can tell the difference between Button and craft. They come because my baristas know about coffee. We don't make drinks as hot as you are talking about, it burns the milk.
You are right some people don't pay attention but most of my customers do. I don't expect to much my customers expect me and my baristas to be experts. That is why they come to my shop. People drive from all over and there are a ton of daily customers
I would love to pay my employees more! But it not as easy as it sounds. My coffee prices would have to go up a lot. I can't pay as much as I would like. I would be out of business. It isn't that easy for a small business. I already pay above the standard. You get better experience at my place because the are very well trained and want to be there. I have been in shops that pay more than me and the barista are rude!
What I offer isn't every where. If you want to tip, tip if you don't don't my barista give the same service. I worked at a place were we didn't get barely any tips. But we knew nothing about coffee. My guys know more about coffee then the general public and people give the great tips.
It isn't a unfair reward system. You can tip or not. Your choice.-COLLAPSE
I just read an article about the court decision in the Starbucks tip case.
I remember Reservoir Dogs & agree with the sentiment that employers should pay their employees what they're worth. That's an impossible battle when it comes to restaurants AND work laws allow restaurants to pay their employees less than minimum wage. Why add another category of underpaid people to the economy?
You...+READ
I just read an article about the court decision in the Starbucks tip case.
I remember Reservoir Dogs & agree with the sentiment that employers should pay their employees what they're worth. That's an impossible battle when it comes to restaurants AND work laws allow restaurants to pay their employees less than minimum wage. Why add another category of underpaid people to the economy?
You Baristas and owners expect customers to know too much about what goes on behind the counter. Customers probably don't pay attention to whether it's automated or not. I taste my drink to see if they've done a good job; unfortunately, my lattes are usually served so hot that I'm miles away from the shop before I can finally tell. If it’s bad, I never go back to that place.
By contrast, in a restaurant I tip after I've had the service performed AND tasted my food. I can base my tip on the total experience the server has provided me. There is some pooling in restaurants, but not like what is described for coffee houses. The *server tips the bartender because he or she helps speedily deliver well-made drinks to the customer. The server tips the busser because he or she also contributes to the diner’s experience. (but the dishwasher and the line cook aren't paid. Go figure.) If at a restaurant you tried to collect tips and distribute them at the end of the week based on the number of hours each server worked, as Starbuck apparently does, you’d have a mutiny, because the system would be more unfair than it already is.
If you had asked me before today whether Starbucks Baristas pushed buttons or performed art, I would have thought the latter. Else, why did Starbucks have the highly publicized day off to train their Baristas?
Were there always tip mugs? I don't remember seeing them until recently. Now Dunkin' Donuts have them also. I tip when I can, but maybe we shouldn’t encourage this.
There are too many variables to expect fair tipping and hence fair wages. If all I'm doing is rushing in the morning & all I want is a jolt of caffeine delivered in a pleasant tasting way - as I rush out the door - I shouldn't be expected to watch to see whether you push buttons or are getting the milk foam just right. (Plus, as I said, it's usually to hot for me to drink anyway, but perhaps I'm the exception.)
In most cases I go to whatever coffee shop is closest that I think will serve a decent latte or whatever. I'll probably never see that person behind the counter again; by the time I can drink it, I probably wouldn't even be able to describe the person who made my latte. Often, there's more than one person involved: someone takes the order, someone else makes the drink and yet a different person hands it to me. These are things that are an expected part of product delivery at a "fast food" place & the management should pay employees what they are worth.
What if I have tea, and all you're doing is giving me a bag and a cup of really hot water? Should I tip then, or only if you froth the milk or blender the drink?
If I'm a regular somewhere and sometimes hang out, or always get the same thing and someone remembers me, that is different. That is a case of you get what you pay for; if I'm getting something extra and I want it next time, then I tip that person. It would never occur to me that the person who gave me the good service would have to share that tip, especially with people on other shifts.
If someone comes out from behind the counter to deliver my food or drink, or is expected to clean up after me, I should be expected to tip. If I'm expected to bus my own food, I shouldn't be expected to tip. If I'm at a small intimate place where there isn't an assembly line atmosphere and I watch the artistry, that is different, especially if it is not a chain, but a small business that doesn’t generate revenue from selling me mugs and CDs.
If I pay Starbucks for overpriced coffee, maybe it’s for the atmosphere. I'm being provided and environment where I can sit down and read the paper or otherwise hang out with a friend. Should I tip because the employees have to come out from behind the counter and straighten out papers and magazines, attractively display doo dads I'm being encouraged to buy, adjust lights and play music I like? Come to think of it, the employees at the Hallmark store do pretty much the same thing. Should I tip them, or should I tip only if I also buy a food product.
Also, I understand the generosity principle of those who appreciate the service and are in a position to tip. But, as someone pointed out, the people who demand the most are usually not generous, so the generous are subsidizing the jerks. If the employees are being paid what they are worth, then the surly customers also share the cost.
Perhaps management should pay employees what they are worth and based on what they're expected to do. Management is in the best position to know how much the employees are expected to do and it is the business, particularly the chain stores, that will benefit or suffer the consequences. Places that pay better, will provide a better experience.
Don't use one already unfair reward system, restaurants and bars, as an excuse for creating another even more unfair reward system.-COLLAPSE
At chain coffee shops, I occasionally tip especially when I have some change leftover. At Starbucks I feel less inclined to tip because it's automated, but it depends on my drink and my mood.
However, with more "serious" coffee shops with experienced baristi, I always tip because I respect what they do, their skill set, and their knowledge, and recognize their efforts at trying to revise the...+READ
At chain coffee shops, I occasionally tip especially when I have some change leftover. At Starbucks I feel less inclined to tip because it's automated, but it depends on my drink and my mood.
However, with more "serious" coffee shops with experienced baristi, I always tip because I respect what they do, their skill set, and their knowledge, and recognize their efforts at trying to revise the generally poor perception of their chosen occupation. A latte, a good latte is not simply espresso and milk if you've the palate to distinguish between a Starbucks latte and a properly made one from a barista who takes care to pull a good shot of espresso and to foam the milk up properly. They could very well just let the steam wand blast away in the pitcher of milk while they pull the shot, leaving you what is essentially a shot of poor espresso masked by the not-so-delicious taste and body of overheated milk.
I usually tip 10% of the price of the drink or whatever change I have left and definitely more when I've developed more a rapport with the barista. But I suppose that's indicative of my appreciation of a barista's work, and I can understand people's different tipping policies when it comes to baristi. I also prefer tip jars because it eases the awkwardness of handing change over to a barista (because he/she might be moving onto someone else's drink) and I don't think it's a guilt-inducing gesture on the part of the management to leave tip jars out because they're nearly omnipresent now.
To digress briefly, is anyone reminded of that scene in Reservoir Dogs where they discuss Mr. Pink's anti-tipping policy?-COLLAPSE
Hey there, I run an independent coffee shop, with 4 decent baristas - 2 of whom are probably more on the "career barista" side of things. They work hard, and to create the drinks they create does require a fair amount of training, as well as on going tips on how to become a true artist (which really good baristas are by the way). Lately, they have all been complaining about the fact that my POS...+READ
Hey there, I run an independent coffee shop, with 4 decent baristas - 2 of whom are probably more on the "career barista" side of things. They work hard, and to create the drinks they create does require a fair amount of training, as well as on going tips on how to become a true artist (which really good baristas are by the way). Lately, they have all been complaining about the fact that my POS system doesn't allow them to receive tips when someone uses a credit card. Any feed back on this issue?-COLLAPSE
I don't think baristas should be tipped for "knowing" what they do or working "really hard" or making small talk.That fits the description of most people I know who have a job. For example, the custodian staff in my office know what they're doing, work extremely hard, and we talk about our weekends and families, etc., every day. Am I supposed to tip them too?
That being said, as one poster...+READ
I don't think baristas should be tipped for "knowing" what they do or working "really hard" or making small talk.That fits the description of most people I know who have a job. For example, the custodian staff in my office know what they're doing, work extremely hard, and we talk about our weekends and families, etc., every day. Am I supposed to tip them too?
That being said, as one poster pointed out earlier, tipping is a generous and gracious thing to do. So if the mood strikes you, then do it!-COLLAPSE
I go to a lot of coffee shops and my tipping rule is: did you have to do something in order for me to get my drink?
One place had wonderful mocha granitas but they came out of a machine. I'm not tipping for someone to pull a lever and put a lid on a cup. Same with hot coffee. There is certainly no tip when I order an iced tea and I'm handed an empty cup and pointed toward the tea bar. That would...+READ
I go to a lot of coffee shops and my tipping rule is: did you have to do something in order for me to get my drink?
One place had wonderful mocha granitas but they came out of a machine. I'm not tipping for someone to pull a lever and put a lid on a cup. Same with hot coffee. There is certainly no tip when I order an iced tea and I'm handed an empty cup and pointed toward the tea bar. That would just be ridiculous.
As soon as it involves espresso or a blender, I'll start tipping.
OR
If I'm in the kind of mood where I don't know what I want and I ask the barista for recommendations, then I will most DEFINITELY tip. Even if I ended up with a drink that takes no effort.-COLLAPSE
Sing It MommaJ!!
I respect anybody who works hard at his or her job. That doesn't mean I'm going to throw tips at everybody I encounter. Guess what? My money is just as meaningful to me as it is to all these baristas! When I pay for a cup of coffee, the service is included in the price, and there's no reason to pay any extra. I tip servers who make less than minimum wage because that's part of the understanding...+READ
I respect anybody who works hard at his or her job. That doesn't mean I'm going to throw tips at everybody I encounter. Guess what? My money is just as meaningful to me as it is to all these baristas! When I pay for a cup of coffee, the service is included in the price, and there's no reason to pay any extra. I tip servers who make less than minimum wage because that's part of the understanding we have when dining out--we are responsible for part of the servers' compensation. That's not the situation in a coffee shop or ice cream parlor, where the employees make at least minimum wage. They get paid for doing their jobs, just like the cashier at the grocery store or the receptionist at the dentist's office. I wouldn't tip the cashier or receptionist just because they smile or make small talk. A pleasant demeanor isn't a special treat for which I need to show my gratitude in cash; it's a requisite of any job where one deals with the public. We own a liquor store. Our employees often take a great deal of time assisting customers with their selections, packaging, and sometimes giftwrapping them, and carrying them to their cars. They are paid a wage appropriate to their responsibilities and don't expect or receive tips for doing their jobs properly. Why should it be different for the guy who pours my coffee at Dunkin Donuts? Tip jars are there to embarrass people into tipping. I smile, say "thank you", and ignore them.-COLLAPSE
At the best shops the barista works really hard. There is alot of bad coffee out there, from barista who don't care. I know baristas who study coffee. They have to be fast and good. Sure baristas at shop who don't care ,don't work hard. But I know alot who do. And love and what to make a great drink. It isn't as easy as you think. A ton of training and retraining is invovled to make a good drink....+READ
At the best shops the barista works really hard. There is alot of bad coffee out there, from barista who don't care. I know baristas who study coffee. They have to be fast and good. Sure baristas at shop who don't care ,don't work hard. But I know alot who do. And love and what to make a great drink. It isn't as easy as you think. A ton of training and retraining is invovled to make a good drink. Not every one can do it!
The name barista is from Italy. Every job should be respected. We shouldn't look down on any job if someone is putting there all into it.-COLLAPSE
Slightly off topic, but is anybody bugged by the "barrista concept"....the whole elevating the job of coffee making to some sort of exalted role in our society. Its freakin espresso and milk for crying out loud.
Maybe I'm bugged because I see nursing assistants and busboys work a helluva lot harder with less peer respect.
I was at caribou a few weeks ago and they had put the tip jar basically in the middle of the little 18' wide area where you place your order. I thought it was annoying.
I tip, based on the fact that I imagine I make more money than the barrista (enough to order luxury drinks regularly). This is independant of their going "out of their way," as long as they're not surly or rushed with me. I also sit and work in my neighbourhood cafe often, so I consider it partially a table tax in my case. There seem to be two reasons to tip: to show your appreciation, or because...+READ
I tip, based on the fact that I imagine I make more money than the barrista (enough to order luxury drinks regularly). This is independant of their going "out of their way," as long as they're not surly or rushed with me. I also sit and work in my neighbourhood cafe often, so I consider it partially a table tax in my case. There seem to be two reasons to tip: to show your appreciation, or because you think it's generally the right thing to do given an income spread between you and your server. Maybe it's because I'm Canadian, but I fall into the second camp.-COLLAPSE
What does the average customer consider "going out of his/her way"? I've worked the same shift for over 2 years. I know 95% of the people that walk in the door by first name. I know what your drinking. I've said "Hey Joe, how's your kid doing today? Did that cold clear up yet?" I set my watch by what time BettySue walks in the door. Is that going out of my way?
I'm a professional. I've spent...+READ
What does the average customer consider "going out of his/her way"? I've worked the same shift for over 2 years. I know 95% of the people that walk in the door by first name. I know what your drinking. I've said "Hey Joe, how's your kid doing today? Did that cold clear up yet?" I set my watch by what time BettySue walks in the door. Is that going out of my way?
I'm a professional. I've spent years learning about extraction methods, how brew temperature effects the taste of espresso, how grinding and dosing effect the taste of espresso, what different roast levels do to the flavor, and there is still more to learn.
Is that going out of my way?
I've learned about origins, what flavor differences a coffee from Guatemala vs a coffee from Brazil will have. I know how much the farmer was paid for the coffee you are drinking. If you walk in the door and ask for a "strong" coffee, or a "dark" coffee, I will send you out with something you like. I can describe for you the subtle flavors of the 8 different drip coffees I'm brewing this week. Is this going out of my way?
I work for a company that sends baristas to competitions, to coffee farms, to the roaster, to conventions. Every person that works for my company has intensive (like at least a month) training, and has to pass a test (with at least a 90%) before their even allowed to make espresso for a customer. Is this, as a company, going out of our way?
I urge customers to think about the skill set and knowledge that their barista has. Maybe you're going somewhere where their isn't this kind of knowledge base, and you don't tip. Fine. But all coffeehouse customers should know that there ARE places out there where the baristas aren't just students making their way through school, those baristas are CAREER baristas. Ask a couple of questions and you will see. And then decide what you're rule is going to be.-COLLAPSE
As a rule, I don't put anything in the tip jar unless the person goes out of his way to do something for me. And this is usually not the case, since my orders are standard.
I'm of the school that I don't have to tip when I'm waiting in line. if you bring it to the table, that's another matter.
If the cashier or barrista does something even vaguely personal, I do put the excess change in the tip jar. But I don't feel like it's an obligation.
I'm one of those "toss the change in the jar" guys. My only exception is when I need a coupla quarters for the meter. I always feel a bit guilty when I do that, for some reason.
Here's one for all you baristas: Do you get pissed when the owner jacks up the price of coffee? Mine just went from $1.70 to $1.85 for a 16 oz drip, and I sure ain't digging into my pocket for added change when I tip....+READ
I'm one of those "toss the change in the jar" guys. My only exception is when I need a coupla quarters for the meter. I always feel a bit guilty when I do that, for some reason.
Here's one for all you baristas: Do you get pissed when the owner jacks up the price of coffee? Mine just went from $1.70 to $1.85 for a 16 oz drip, and I sure ain't digging into my pocket for added change when I tip. That means the baristas get $0.15 less per visit from me. What say you?-COLLAPSE
I always tip. I always smile and I always say please. And I have never known the taste of angry waiter/barrista spit. Coincidence? Maybe.
As co-owner of a coffeehouse, we do report a number for tip income for each of our baristas.
Far as Fatbuddy and his ilk goes, there are many people who love coffee, the people it touches at origin and the people it brings together - and that don't like bars with football on tv and the slobs they attract.
There is considerably more skill involved in pulling a decent shot of espresso than there...+READ
As co-owner of a coffeehouse, we do report a number for tip income for each of our baristas.
Far as Fatbuddy and his ilk goes, there are many people who love coffee, the people it touches at origin and the people it brings together - and that don't like bars with football on tv and the slobs they attract.
There is considerably more skill involved in pulling a decent shot of espresso than there is involved with pouring a Coors Light. To suggest otherwise would indicate one doesn't understand the concept of "Chowhound".
We don't expect everyone to tip and most don't, especially those who consider our product to be "just coffee" when it more accurately represents the top 1% of available crop each growing season and is being served by baristas who place in industry competitions. Those folks just won't get it and likely don't care if they ever do.
Anyway, all change is good, whether 20 cents or 50 cents or a dollar. Regardless of how much skin is showing.-COLLAPSE
I'm curious. Are you baristas who are making minimum wage disclosing your tips on your taxes? Does Starbucks (or other large chains) that have tip jars keep track of the pooled tips, and provide a total on your year-end W-2?
I sincerely hope they do and you are, as the IRS takes a very, very dim view of unreported income if they nail you.
As a barista, now owner of a Coffee house, I say tip! My baristas are required to learn about coffee. The go through many hours of training and always have on going training. They have to learn about the coffee. They help pick out coffee beans etc. If the barista does know about coffee or how to make a great drink they shouldn't get a tip. But if there customer service is good and they know what...+READ
As a barista, now owner of a Coffee house, I say tip! My baristas are required to learn about coffee. The go through many hours of training and always have on going training. They have to learn about the coffee. They help pick out coffee beans etc. If the barista does know about coffee or how to make a great drink they shouldn't get a tip. But if there customer service is good and they know what they are talking about. Tip them. My best baristas get the best tips. they are expected to be nice no matter what time it is and how grumpy you are. This is part of the service industry. It is also no big deal if some doesn't what to tip. We do the same service for everyone.-COLLAPSE
I worked at Starbucks for years when I was in my 20s, and the money from the tip jar made a huge difference in my standard of living.
I don't tip every time I get a latte, but I toss something in the tip jar a couple times a week. No, I don't have to, but I see these people every weekday, they remember my drink, get it done in a hurry and are always friendly, even at 7:00 am. 50 cents or so is...+READ
I worked at Starbucks for years when I was in my 20s, and the money from the tip jar made a huge difference in my standard of living.
I don't tip every time I get a latte, but I toss something in the tip jar a couple times a week. No, I don't have to, but I see these people every weekday, they remember my drink, get it done in a hurry and are always friendly, even at 7:00 am. 50 cents or so is no big deal to me, but that tip jar really adds up.
I think people who have done time in the service industry are much better tippers because we understand how much it can suck.-COLLAPSE
Former barista here, and I have to agree with my fellow coffee workers: I never expected, wanted, etc a tip from my grande black coffee with room. But my quad shot viente mocha (1 pump dark chocolate, 1 pump white) breve (made with 1/2 and 1/2) with light whip at 7:45 AM during rush sure would have made my day is she would have put at least a $1 every now and again in the jar. I'm serious about...+READ
Former barista here, and I have to agree with my fellow coffee workers: I never expected, wanted, etc a tip from my grande black coffee with room. But my quad shot viente mocha (1 pump dark chocolate, 1 pump white) breve (made with 1/2 and 1/2) with light whip at 7:45 AM during rush sure would have made my day is she would have put at least a $1 every now and again in the jar. I'm serious about that order by the way. Yes, I made min. wage, but when you're asking for extreme customization I think you really ought to tip. I always put my coin change in the jar, plus $1 if I order a customized bev/if I'm comped/about once a week for the hell of it.-COLLAPSE
Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but I don't tip at coffee shops.
Especially when they use automated machines, and am served coffee drinks as take away service. I think the point, if workers in coffee shops only made server wages is correct, then sure I would tip. But baristas are not in this category. Culturally, there are places you tip, and places you don't.
For those of you who choose to...+READ
Well, sorry to burst your bubble, but I don't tip at coffee shops.
Especially when they use automated machines, and am served coffee drinks as take away service. I think the point, if workers in coffee shops only made server wages is correct, then sure I would tip. But baristas are not in this category. Culturally, there are places you tip, and places you don't.
For those of you who choose to work in a coffeehouse and don't make much to make ends meet, either live with it or get a better paying job. Don't rely on tips when coffeehouses are not part of the hospitality industry that traditionally get tips.
Get a job in an expensive full service restaurant or a really busy bar instead.
I know someone who served drinks during Monday Night Football, and she regularly made $500 in tips, plus her server wage.-COLLAPSE
As a barista and a student who is struggling financially, I am definitely on the "tipping is good" side of the argument. No, I am in no way offended when you throw in 50 cents of change that I hand back as opposed to five bucks or something. In fact, I am very grateful - money is money, and it adds up. I do, however, get offended when I hand back someone 20 cents and they stick it in their...+READ
As a barista and a student who is struggling financially, I am definitely on the "tipping is good" side of the argument. No, I am in no way offended when you throw in 50 cents of change that I hand back as opposed to five bucks or something. In fact, I am very grateful - money is money, and it adds up. I do, however, get offended when I hand back someone 20 cents and they stick it in their pocket, especially when I've initiated conversation or their drink was extremely difficult to make. Yes, I get paid minimum wage, but JUST that, I definitely rely on my tips, and I often go out of my way to be friendly because of it (and because my job gets really boring otherwise). Working in a coffeeshop can easily turn into hard physical labor when you're waking up at the crack of dawn, hauling milk cartons around, running back and forth, and often working by yourself (not to mention closing by yourself, which means scrubbing down the entire place, hauling out all of the trash, etc.). Thus, I don't expect a tip, but if you order a drink that's more than five syllables (especially if it's blended), a lot of food or food that needs to be prepared, if you're REALLY picky and tack on a bunch of specifications to your drink, or even if you can see that I'm working hard or making an attempt to be friendly, I think that a tip (even a small one) is only fair. Seriously, a bit of change in the jar goes a long way, especially if you're a regular. Baristas have impeccably good memories.-COLLAPSE
As a barista at a well respected, busy, coffee dedicated independent cafe, I get about an extra dollar and a half per hour after we pool all of the tips. It's not much, but it pays for drinks every once in awhile. I appreciate any tip I get, the change from your drink purchase is fine!
I agree with most people's points on here too. Sounds like chowhounds have it figured out for the most part.
...+READ
As a barista at a well respected, busy, coffee dedicated independent cafe, I get about an extra dollar and a half per hour after we pool all of the tips. It's not much, but it pays for drinks every once in awhile. I appreciate any tip I get, the change from your drink purchase is fine!
I agree with most people's points on here too. Sounds like chowhounds have it figured out for the most part.
The only problem I do have is when really demanding customers don't tip (over-the-top customization, or asking for things off of the menu), or if you're having food for four people plus drinks and you don't tip. That I have a problem with, because it shifts the cafe into being a restaurant and you should probably abide by restaurant cultural norms, and not a cafe's.
The funny thing is is that most people I know who fit into the above category, NEVER tip. Sigh.-COLLAPSE
Recognizing the person's humanity is indeed a step in the right direction. Returning the courtesy is even nicer. Kindness pays dividends, but dividends pay for so much more.
i can't believe people stress out some much about tips. there are no rules, it is entirely up to you. it's a gratuity, you use it to show gratitude. you can also show gratitude in other ways, like saying "thank you" and meaning it, looking your server in the eyes, not talking on your cell phone at the counter, being personable, etc. again, there are no rules here, do what you want.
Not that this secures the debate, but in Italy its customary to tip your barista between 10 and 30 cents per espresso....
Whats next, are we going to debate tipping the gal at whole foods who rings me up?
It's simple: tip if they're good. If they make a great cup or really customize your order (or at least appear to give a damn), that's worth rewarding.
If they're just doing their job, cranking out more of the same old stuff as fast as their fingers can push buttons (, I'd be less apt to want to tip.
I think that the issue here is that a latte, or any fancy schmancy espresso drink, is a luxury item, much like a Manhattan or a Spanish Coffee; whereas a cup of coffee is not, much like a bottle of beer. That is, the barista/bartender expends a lot more effort in making the fancy drinks, and doesn't just hand you a bottle of beer or a paper cup. (The exception here is Starbucks, where it's just a...+READ
I think that the issue here is that a latte, or any fancy schmancy espresso drink, is a luxury item, much like a Manhattan or a Spanish Coffee; whereas a cup of coffee is not, much like a bottle of beer. That is, the barista/bartender expends a lot more effort in making the fancy drinks, and doesn't just hand you a bottle of beer or a paper cup. (The exception here is Starbucks, where it's just a few buttons to push for a latte.) As such, when I buy a latte or a mixed cocktail, I factor in the dollar tip as part of the price.
There are exceptions, a series of rules that as a former barista/bartender/server, I have derived from the Golden Rule. If you sit down with a cup of coffee and the server attentively refills it, you should tip a dollar. If the bartender ignores you or makes you wait, you tip every other drink, or if the service is truly terrible, not at all. If you get your latte/drink for free (because you are friends with the barista, or a regular customer), the tip should be MORE than you would have (at least twice). If the place is super busy, but the service still fast and friendly, tip well.
If you can't afford a dollar tip for your daily latte, switch to coffee for a while.-COLLAPSE
tipping is an act of gratitude and generosity--if you have one of these in you, the other naturally follows in proportion. in my experience, generous tipping only does good and it is always appreciated.
for those who cannot separate service from servitude tipping can mean many things.
ricky7, the guy that tips as a response to sexiness of the server misses the point, in my opinion.
as a...+READ
tipping is an act of gratitude and generosity--if you have one of these in you, the other naturally follows in proportion. in my experience, generous tipping only does good and it is always appreciated.
for those who cannot separate service from servitude tipping can mean many things.
ricky7, the guy that tips as a response to sexiness of the server misses the point, in my opinion.
as a counter person, a barista serves the same purpose as a sandwich maker, or a server who comes to your table--if they do a little something extra,whether a chain or an independent company, then that server/barista/counterperson appreciates the generosity--hey any generosity is a gift--and it engenders gratitude doublefold.-COLLAPSE
There is always the option of tipping once a week, if we are looking at a matter of change per transaction. In my opinion, you are not expected to tip, but if you go somewhere almost daily and you like the counter servers, you should give them a little something.
i, as a rule, hate a tip jar. i understand they are not making much money but it seems so crass. however, in certain places, where the server was an attractive woman and was friendly, i did tip. sorry to sound sexist but a little skin goes far.
When I was a barista, most regular customers dropped whatever coin change they had into the tip jar. When I would talk with them, make them laugh, etc. they would drop a dollar in most of the time. This seemed very fair and by the end of the week always came to a pretty good amount. It is true, however, that we never expected tips.
Also, it seems that most places have a rule that lets the...+READ
When I was a barista, most regular customers dropped whatever coin change they had into the tip jar. When I would talk with them, make them laugh, etc. they would drop a dollar in most of the time. This seemed very fair and by the end of the week always came to a pretty good amount. It is true, however, that we never expected tips.
Also, it seems that most places have a rule that lets the barista keep the whole tip if a customer hands it directly to him or her, while the tip is split up with all other employees if it went into the tip jar. If you really appreciate your barista, you may want to hand it directly to him or her.
Every food service worker remembers good tippers, particularly if they are regulars.-COLLAPSE