Tipping / Gratuity

Question

I'm from New Zealand where we don't tip or pay gratuity.

What is the expected value of tip/gratuity in San Francisco?

Also, I'm doing a walking tour. Do we tip every establishment we visit with the tour guide?

Thank you.

Answer

In the United States, tipping is customary and expected in many service industries, including restaurants, cafes, bars, taxis, and tour services. In San Francisco, the expected tipping amount generally reflects a percentage of the total bill or service cost.

General tipping guidelines:

Restaurants: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service. For exceptional service, you can tip 20–25%.
Bars / Cafes: $1–$2 per drink is typical, or 15–20% of the total tab.
Taxis / Rideshares: 10–15% of the fare is common.
Hotel staff: $1–$2 per bag for bellhops, $2–$5 per night for housekeeping.
Tour guides: For walking tours, tipping $5–$10 per person for a 2–3 hour tour is customary, more if the tour was exceptional.

Regarding your walking tour:

You do not need to tip at every establishment you visit along the tour. The tip is intended for the guide themselves, not the restaurants, cafes, or other stops.
Focus on tipping the guide at the end of the tour based on the quality of the experience.

In general, tipping is considered a reflection of good service and is an important part of the income for many service workers in San Francisco. While you are not obligated to tip, it is socially expected and appreciated.

Tipping / Gratuity

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