I never noticed tipping in the CL until about 6 weeks ago when I was in the Renaissance PHL CL. Several people (mostly men eating alone) left a dollar or two at their table upon departure. I had never noticed that before, but felt compelled to borrow a couple of bucks from my kids for me to leave (I hadn't brought my wallet into the lounge).

As I exited the CL, I noticed a 'tip dish' at the front desk with a few singles in it.

The next day, I didn't see anyone leave money on the tables.

When I returned home, I asked my husband, who is also a Marriott Plat, if this was something I'd missed all along and he said he's never seen it, nor has he tipped for the usual CL service.

I thought the tip dish was in poor taste.

ps- On the occasions where I've had exemplary, personalized service (not just asking for help/tickets/directions or anything like that, but CL staff who were attentive to my family and went out of their way to see that we had a great stay), I've always written a note to the GM and sent a copy to Mr. Marriott's office. I feel that this gesture goes a longer way.