What's the standard tip in NYC restaurants?

In NYC, standard tip is 18-22% of the pre-tax bill at sit-down restaurants. 15% is the minimum acceptable; 25%+ for exceptional service. For takeout, 10% is standard.

Should I tip on tax in NYC?

No, the standard is to tip on the PRE-TAX subtotal. NYC sales tax is 8.875%, so a $100 meal becomes $108.88 after tax. Calculate 20% on the $100 ($20), not on the $108.88.

What's auto-gratuity in NYC?

Many NYC restaurants add an automatic 18-20% 'service charge' or 'gratuity' for parties of 6+. If you see this on your check, you don't need to add additional tip — though many diners still add 2-5% extra for excellent service.

How much should I tip the bartender in NYC?

NYC bartender standard is $1-2 per drink for simple pours (beer, wine), $2-3 per cocktail. Or 20% of the bar tab if you run a tab. Cash tip preferred.

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NYC Tip Calculator

Pre-tax tip math with NYC's 8.875% sales tax. Decodes "service charge included," splits the bill, and adds bartender tips.

Pre-tax bill USD

NYC sales tax %

Tip %

Split bill people

"Service charge included" (18-20% auto-gratuity already on check — large party)

Tip on the total (including tax) instead of pre-tax

Add bartender tip: $2/drink ×

YOUR TIP

$20.00

20% of $100.00 pre-tax

Subtotal

$100.00

Tax (8.875%)

$8.88

Tip

$20.00

Bartender

$0.00

TOTAL

$128.88

Per person (× 1)

$128.88

What's the standard tip in NYC restaurants?: 18-22% of the pre-tax bill at sit-down. 15% is the minimum acceptable; 25%+ for exceptional service.
Should I tip on tax in NYC?: Standard is to tip on the PRE-TAX subtotal. NYC sales tax is 8.875% — a $100 meal becomes $108.88 after tax. Calculate 20% on the $100 ($20), not $108.88.
What's auto-gratuity?: Many NYC restaurants add an automatic 18-20% service charge for parties of 6+. If you see this on your check, you don't need to add additional tip. Many diners still add 2-5% extra for excellent service.
How much for the bartender?: $1-2 per beer/wine pour, $2-3 per cocktail. Or 20% of the bar tab if you run one. Cash preferred.
Delivery and takeout?: 10-15% for delivery (more in bad weather), 10% for takeout pickup. Round up to the nearest dollar for small orders.

NYC Tip Calculator

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