I tip people if that’s their job (Delivery Driver, Hostess/Host, etc) and I generally tip well atleast $5 (24yr old guy so I don’t spend much eating out). HOWEVER, and this is where I draw the line….I refuse to tip at places where all the person does is sit me and take my order. For example, there’s a small restaurant chain near me (I reside in SC) and the location near me has two maybe three people working depending on the day/time. They sit you down, take your order, bring you your order, and then that’s it. They hardly if ever check up on me, offer to refill my drink, or anything of the sort. But they will chitchat with each other about what topic piques their interest. And it’s a small restaurant so you can hear everything.

I’m generally quiet and won’t raise a fuss even if you mess up my order. I’ll still eat it. But I’m not tipping you if you don’t have decency to check up on me. And then of course they have that machine where if you pay it ask “Do you want to leave a tip” and I hit “No”, which of course the worker(s) look at me like I’m some devil because I didn’t tip. What did you do to warrant me tipping? You gave me my food?

So is it okay to not tip?

Edit One: I don’t frequent the restaurant moreso a “once in a blue moon” kinda thing” sorry for the confusion. I’m currently at work and this question has been nagging me for while. I appreciate everyone’s input and perspectives on the matter.

Edit Two: Thank you everyone for their perspectives of the topic. I also wasn’t aware it was discussed a lot in this subreddit so I apologize for that. I’m glad to hear other people’s opinions on the matter and how tipping is viewed differently from person to person.