NYC Tipping Guide: Restaurants, Taxis and Services Without the Guesswork
Tipping customs in New York can feel confusing because different services use different norms, and payment screens often suggest percentages automatically. Separate what is mandatory on the bill from the gratuity you choose to leave.
Check for service or gratuity already included.
Use the calculator to separate each component.
Service type and situation matter.
Restaurant checks: look before adding
Review whether the restaurant has already added a service charge or gratuity, especially for groups or special formats. Do not assume every additional line is a tax, and do not automatically duplicate a charge.
Pre-tax vs after-tax tipping
People use both approaches. If you want consistency, choose one method and use the restaurant bill calculator to see the difference clearly rather than guessing from the total.
Taxis and ride services
A gratuity is separate from metered fare, tolls and official surcharges. Review the total journey charges first, then choose the tip that fits the service.
Hotels and other services
Hotels involve several different roles, and the appropriate approach depends on what service is actually provided. Avoid relying on a single universal amount for every interaction.
Payment screens are suggestions, not statutes
Digital terminals may display preset buttons. Those are interface choices, not proof that one percentage is legally required. Read the bill and make an informed choice.