Originally Posted by
mnfilmer
I do it simply to make someone's day and it's appropriate. Whoever referenced McDonalds servers who bring the food to your table...they are paid better than servers.
It depends where you are. In California, all servers are paid at least the regular minimum wage ($10.50/hr), plus tips, so they are definitely getting more than McDonald's workers. I would assume that servers at "iPad restaurants" are paid the same as servers at regular restaurants, since the restaurant probably considers it a tipped position. However, due to the iPads, they can probably serve more tables per shift than otherwise, so I think it's appropriate to tip a bit less for that reason.
Originally Posted by
KascadeKat
I hate these restaurants and refuse to give them any business.
I carry enough electronics. I don’t need another one in my face while I’m trying to eat.
You can’t pay cash in those restaurants.
I have special dietary needs and I doubt the glorified food runners have been trained on the menus.
IME you can still pay cash, or hand your card to the server if you want. Use of the machines is optional. It probably depends on the restaurant, but many times a server will appear, go over the use of the machine, and ask if you have any questions.
Originally Posted by
MSPeconomist
I would tip in an iPad place the same as I would in a buffet: Normally leave something but not the usual 15-20% in the USA. My standard would probably be 10% depending on whether there were drink refills etc. I wouldn't leave less than $1, but a $1 tip would seem like a lot for a nonalcoholic drink only.
I think this is a good approach. I always thought that for non-full service, such as buffets, you should tip a flat rate of a few bucks rather than a percentage. I suppose that as "iPad restaurants" become more common, a social standard will emerge.