Tip Calculator

Tipping norms by region

Tipping culture varies a lot by country — what's generous in one place can be confusing or even unnecessary in another. As a general guide, not a rule:

• United States & Canada — 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is typical at sit-down restaurants; tipped staff often rely on tips as part of their income.
• UK & Ireland — Tipping is optional. Many restaurants add a discretionary service charge (often 10–12.5%) instead; you can usually ask for it to be removed if service was poor.
• Continental Europe — Service is generally included in the menu price. Rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected.
• Australia — Hospitality staff earn a full minimum wage, so tipping isn't customary, though it's welcomed for standout service.

For a sense of what you might actually be spending before the tip, browse our country-by-country menu prices.

FAQ

How much should I tip at a restaurant?

It depends heavily on the country. In the US, 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is the common range, partly because tipped staff are often paid a lower base wage. In the UK and Ireland, tipping is optional — many restaurants add a discretionary service charge of around 10–12.5% to the bill instead, which you can ask to have removed. In much of continental Europe, service is usually included in the price and a small round-up is a polite bonus rather than an expectation. In Australia, hospitality staff are paid a full minimum wage and tipping is uncommon, though appreciated for excellent service.

Should I tip on the total before or after tax?

Convention varies, but the most common practice — especially in the US — is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the amount after sales tax has been added.

Is a service charge the same as a tip?

No. A service charge is added automatically by the restaurant to the bill (common in the UK and parts of Europe) and, depending on local law, may or may not go directly to staff. A tip is a separate, voluntary amount you choose to leave.