What is the typical service charge expected in restaurants?

The typical service charge expected in restaurants generally falls within the range of 15% to 20%. This percentage has become a standard guideline in dining establishments, reflecting customary gratuity levels for good service. It is understood that this charge is a way to acknowledge the efforts of the servers and staff who contribute to the dining experience.

In many restaurants, especially those with full-service dining experiences, customers anticipate tipping within this range for meals. This expectation is reinforced by industry norms, which suggest that a gratuity in this percentage range often indicates satisfactory service. A charge below this range may suggest service was lacking, while a charge above may indicate exceptional service or a high-cost, fine-dining experience where higher tips are customary.

Understanding this standard helps servers and customers navigate tipping expectations, ensuring that employees are fairly compensated for their work, while customers feel confident in acknowledging good service.