Opinion: If You’re Tipping <15 Percent In Idaho, Watch Out

A story about a disgruntled food server in South Carolina is trending this week after she was reportedly arrested for allegedly making a scene after receiving a tip she thought was insufficient.

I started working in the food service industry when I was in the eighth grade. My first paying job (under the table) was working for a family friend at his restaurant. I would make about $10 a shift bussing tables.

By the time I was 19, I had put in three years as a bar back and food server. I later bartended just prior to getting into broadcasting in 1996, so I know what it's like to wait on people for an income.

Tipping 10 Percent After A Meal Out Is Widely Regarded As Insulting

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The average tip in America for eating out is between 15 and 20 percent, according to American Express. Fifteen percent is viewed as a cringy gratuity by many in food service, especially if the bill was high and the number of diners was five or more.

READ MORE: How A Denny's Waitress Helped Catch Idaho's Most Ruthless Killer

A Texas Roadhouse waitress in South Carolina had to escorted from work by police recently after becoming infuriated over a 15 percent tip, according to the Spalding County Discussion Group / Meta page. Personally, it's not a good idea to berate customers over what is considered on the lowest end of acceptable.

Now, if you're someone who frequently leaves tips in the 10 percent range, then you're potentially asking for poor service and an extended second rule should any portion of your appetizers or entrees end up on the kitchen floor prior to making it out to your table.

Cold and flu season is also here, so remember that if you're a bad tip repeat offender.