Tipping etiquette and social awkwardness in service industries

A discussion on tipping etiquette highlights the growing social awkwardness surrounding gratuities in various service sectors. In sit-down restaurants, a standard tip typically ranges between 18% and 20%.

The debate extends to smaller service roles, such as baristas or delivery drivers. While some suggest tipping only when a server provides active table service, others find the presence of tipping prompts at drive-thrus or quick-service counters to be uncomfortable for both employees and customers.