Tipping etiquette is one of the most confusing parts of dining abroad. In some places, a generous tip is expected, while in others, it’s simply a nice gesture. If you’re planning to eat your way through different continents, here’s 21 countries where restaurants expect high tips.
United States
In the U.S., servers often rely on tips to make a livable wage, with the standard being 15-20% of your total bill. So, if you’re dining out in the States, be prepared to add a significant chunk to your final tab. Not tipping can be seen as a major faux pas, so keep that in mind when you’re enjoying your burger and fries.
Canada
Our northern neighbor shares more than just a border with the US, they also share tipping habits. In Canada, a tip of 15-20% is customary and is crucial for restaurant staff, who often receive lower hourly wages.
Argentina
Tipping is less formal in Argentina, but still important. While a 10% tip is typical, rounding up the bill or leaving a little extra for excellent service can go a long way. In some high-end restaurants, a service charge may already be included, so check your bill. Whether you’re enjoying a juicy steak or sipping Malbec, a little extra for your server will always be welcome.
Brazil
In Brazil, most restaurants include a service charge in their bill, which is usually around 10%. But if you’re particularly happy with the service, adding a bit extra is a nice gesture. For high-end dining experiences, leaving an additional tip can make a big difference.
Chile
Chileans follow a similar tipping practice as Brazil, where a 10% service charge is typically included in the bill. But showing appreciation for good service is customary, so rounding up or leaving a bit extra, especially in higher-end dining spots, is appreciated. Chileans value good service and often express their satisfaction through a little extra tip.
Peru
Tipping is common in Peru, especially in upscale restaurants. While a 10% tip is normal, increasing it to 15% if you’re dining in a tourist area or at a fancier establishment is customary. Peruvians appreciate generous and considerate gestures from diners who enjoy their meal.
Uruguay
Uruguayans are known for their hospitality, and tipping is a part of their culture. A 10% tip is standard in most restaurants, but if you’re impressed with the service, extra is encouraged.
Italy
In Italy, many restaurants include a coperto (cover charge), which typically covers bread and water. But leaving a 10% tip is a good practice in sit-down restaurants. If you’re grabbing a quick coffee or gelato, rounding up the bill is also a courteous gesture.
Turkey
Tipping in Turkey is considered a gesture of politeness and appreciation. While a 10% tip is standard in restaurants, especially for good service, higher tips are often expected in more touristy areas due to the influx of visitors.
Egypt
In Egypt, it’s customary to leave a 10-15% tip at restaurants, even if a service charge is included. Directly tipping the server is also common, acknowledging their effort in providing a pleasant dining experience.
South Africa
Tipping in South Africa is not only expected but essential for many workers. While a 10-15% tip is generally considered standard in restaurants across the country, it’s common practice to tip a bit more in tourist areas, especially for exceptional service.
Croatia
It’s customary to tip in restaurants in Croatia. Tips are a significant source of income for servers, so while it’s normal to leave at least a 10% tip, you are encouraged to leave more. The gesture will be appreciated. But if you want to make sure the tip goes to your waiter, leave it in cash. A few Kuna added to the bill is also normal in bars and coffee shops.
Spain
Tipping is less strict in Spain, but it’s still widely practiced. A small tip, usually between 5 and 10%, is appreciated in restaurants, particularly in tourist areas. Spaniards often round up their bills or leave change for good service, especially in more casual settings.
China
Tipping was once uncommon in China, but it is growing increasingly popular in large cities and high-end restaurants. A 10% tip is considered generous, particularly in upscale restaurants. Whether you’re eating Peking duck or dim sum, your tip will be appreciated in modern restaurants.
Thailand
In Thailand, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. In restaurants, leaving 10-15% for good service, especially in tourist areas, is common. For smaller establishments, rounding up the bill is a polite way to say thank you.
France
In France, leaving a tip is optional, but it’s considered a gesture of gratitude. The majority of restaurant bills will include a service fee or a 15% service charge. But if you decide to give a small additional tip, your waiter will appreciate it. The amount you tip depends on the level of service; there are no standard tipping guidelines. But generally, five to ten percent is considered sufficient.
India
Tipping customs in India vary. In upscale restaurants, a 10-15% tip is expected. For more casual dining, leaving small change or rounding up is appreciated. But always check if a service charge is included before deciding on the tip amount.
Russia
In Russia, tipping culture is evolving. In major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, a 10% tip is becoming the norm in restaurants.
United Arab Emirates
Tipping practices in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) vary per service sector, including restaurants, hotels, and taxis. While hotel restaurants may charge a 10-15% service fee, tipping other hotel employees is less common. In restaurants, 10-15% of the bill is normal. The UAE’s federal law automatically includes a 10% tip on service bills.
Lebanon
Lebanon has a strong tipping culture, with a 10-15% tip expected in restaurants. The Lebanese are known for their hospitality, and leaving a generous tip is a way to show appreciation.
Cyprus
In Cyprus, tipping is a part of the dining experience. A 10% tip is standard in restaurants, and extra tips are encouraged for excellent service. Cypriots value good service, and tipping over the customary rate is encouraged, especially when the service is exceptional.
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