Tipping may seem like a straightforward part of dining out, but expectations vary widely depending on where you are—and how you’re eating. What’s considered generous in one city may be the bare minimum in another. From New York to San Francisco, dine-in to delivery, understanding local tipping norms can help you show appreciation appropriately while avoiding awkward moments.

Here’s what to know about tipping culture across major U.S. cities, how it differs by service type, and how cultural norms shape gratuity expectations.

Tipping in Major U.S. Cities: A Snapshot

While 15–20% remains the national average for sit-down service, some cities push that range higher based on cost of living and dining culture.

• New York City: 20–25% is often expected at mid-to-upscale restaurants. Anything under 18% can be perceived as stingy unless service was poor.
  
• San Francisco: 18–20% is the norm, but many locals lean toward 20% or higher, especially in service-forward establishments.
  
• Chicago: 18% is standard. Some diners round up for strong service or when ordering with dietary modifications.
  
• Los Angeles: 15–20% is common, with higher tips more frequent in trendy or hospitality-driven spots.
  
• Austin and Denver: Slightly more relaxed tipping scenes, with 15–18% considered acceptable in most places.
  

You can review broader tipping etiquette by region with this helpful TripSavvy tipping guide.

Dine-In vs. Pickup vs. Delivery: What’s the Difference?

Not all services require the same tip—here’s how to adjust based on context:

• Dine-in: Tip 18–22%, depending on service quality and complexity of the meal.
  
• Pickup (Takeout): 10% is polite if staff packaged your food, included utensils, and double-checked the order. No tip is necessary for basic grab-and-go.
  
• Delivery: Tip 15–20%, adjusted for distance, weather, or contactless convenience. A minimum of $3–$5 is recommended for small orders.
  

Digital Tipping and Counter Service

Increasingly, restaurants and cafes use tablet systems that prompt customers for a tip even during minimal interaction. This is common at:

• Coffee shops
  
• Bakeries
  
• Fast-casual counters
  

While tipping here isn’t mandatory, many opt to leave $1–$2 as a courtesy or to support staff in high-rent cities.

International Tipping Norms: What to Know When Traveling

Tipping customs can differ dramatically outside the U.S.:

• Japan and South Korea: Tipping is not expected and may even be considered rude.
  
• France and Italy: A service charge is often included (“service compris”), but rounding up is appreciated.
  
• Canada: Similar to the U.S., with 15–20% standard for restaurants.
  
• Mexico: A 10–15% tip is common, though some resort towns expect closer to U.S. levels.
  

Always check local customs before traveling. Tipping incorrectly can cause confusion or unintentionally offend.

Final Thoughts

Tipping is more than a transaction—it’s a cultural signal that varies by city, situation, and expectation. Understanding the nuances helps you show respect for service professionals, especially in high-pressure urban food scenes.

For a detailed look at U.S. tipping standards, visit TripSavvy’s full guide.