Recently, a TikTok creator sparked a contentious online discussion over patrons who eat expensive meals at restaurants but neglect to pay the wait staff.
The video highlighted the importance of tipping and rekindled conversations on the topic; it received over 10,000 views before being removed.
Tipping customs in the US have become a contentious topic in today’s social media-driven society. Previously regarded as a polite gesture, 15-20% is now frequently regarded as the typical expectation. Tipping below this level, according to many, is viewed as insufficient or even impolite.
A restaurant employee named Lillie, who goes by @mylasoasis_ on TikTok, made the controversial remark in the video: Maybe dining out isn’t for you if you can’t afford to tip your waiter. Her comments provoked strong criticism, drawing attention to the continuous discussion concerning the restaurant industry’s tipping customs and financial responsibilities.
Lillie addresses the audience directly in her now-discussed TikTok video, stating, “Eating out is a privilege, not a right.” You cannot afford to eat out if you cannot afford to tip 20%.
She explores the continuing dispute in the United States about the pay of servers. Although many contend that businesses should pay servers a reasonable wage, Lillie notes that the situation for her and the 1.6 million servers across the country is very different at the moment.
She clarifies, “You can argue all you want that my employer should pay me more, but that’s not the case in America.” My hourly wage at the restaurant where I work is $3.63. My real income is derived from tips.
Lillie also points out that tipping is taken into consideration when setting restaurant prices. She claims that because you are supposed to tip, the food is less expensive. “You shouldn’t eat out if you can’t afford to tip.”
“It’s like hiring a nanny,” she continues, drawing a connection. You don’t deserve a nanny if you can’t afford to pay them enough. Lillie takes a strong stand at the end of her film, suggesting that people who are hesitant to tip should think about ordering takeaway or fast food instead. Her unreserved statement provoked intense discussion, with responses ranging from indignation to agreement.
Lillie further expressed her annoyance in the caption of the video, adding, “And to anyone who argues we should be getting paid a higher hourly Alright? However, we aren’t. Your eating experience can only get worse if you don’t tip!
Her article sparked a range of responses, with many people offering their opinions in the comments area.
Lillie’s tone was challenged by one commenter who acknowledged that they frequently tip. “The entitlement is insane, yet I always tip. They wrote, “Find another job that pays well on an hourly basis if you don’t like it.”
Another commenter agreed, saying that if the money isn’t enough, servers should think about alternative professions. “Find another job if your salary isn’t enough to support you.” “This is absurd,” they remarked.
But a lot of people supported Lillie’s position. One individual talked about their own difficulties: “LITERALLY… We basically don’t get paid at all, and I make $2.13 per hour. “SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK,” said another.
One person provided a positive viewpoint, saying, “Go off, girl.” People should only patronize companies that pay fair salaries if they don’t tip because they believe that employers should.
However, not everyone supported the requirement of a 20% gratuity, independent of the caliber of the service. One person remarked, “I tip based on service.” “Unless the service was really poor, I always tip 20% or more.”
A heated discussion around tipping customs, wage equity, and dining manners was spurred by Lillie’s video. What do you think? Tell us in the comments below!
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