Originally Posted by
Enigma368
That said, from a logic point of view this does not make a lot of sense since the level of service is pretty similar in both situations(OK at breakfast you do get marginally more one to one service but really not much difference). Why is it insulting to be asked to tip in a buffet situation in a lounge but not insulting and in fact expected to be asked to tip in a buffet situation at breakfast? It just shows how sometimes there is not a huge amount of logic to a lot of tipping situations.
The waiter in the restaurant is getting paid $2.19 an hour to bring you your beverages and pick up some plates. The lounge attendant is making at least minimum wage ($7.25 an hour) but usually more, plus whatever tips they happen to get.
Anyone who says that US restaurants aren't cheaper must not eat in Europe very often.