To tip or not to tip for takeout food - that is the question.
The answer: It depends.
Tips for takeout meals range from zip to 10 percent, according to the Arizona Restaurant and Hospitality Association.
"The spectrum for tipping for takeout is very wide, and can be confusing to consumers," said association president Steve Chucri.
There are no hard-and-fast rules, but these recommendations from experts should help you decide when and how much:
• You are not obligated to tip at a sandwich shop or other restaurant without table service. Restaurants often encourage tipping with a jar on the counter. A simple thank you is enough. But tipping is a way to say thank you with money. If the counter help is friendly and you feel generous, go ahead.
• If you're at a sit-down restaurant that has carryout meals, 5 to 10 percent of the tab is a reasonable tip.
• Many restaurants offer curbside pick-up. Customers call in their orders and servers deliver the food to their cars. For curbside service, tip 10 percent.
"Consider how much work was involved with your order and tip accordingly," Chucri said.
Karen Fernau
The Arizona Republic
Jun. 16, 2004 12:00 AM