On 8/15/2016 8:34 AM, Gary wrote:
> William wrote:
>>
>> What is a proper tip at a "buffet" self serve restaurant where a
>> server brings you water and does not come back to your table?
>
> Even at a buffet, the server will stop by and remove old plates. I've
> never had one ignore us completely. Servers count on tips even in cheap
> restaurants. I always give them 20-30%.

I tip as usual, too. Generally a buffet will be quite cheap
and the difference between 10 and 20% is negligible and why not
err on the side of generosity. As you say, they're watching your
table and removing dishes, making sure your drink isn't empty.
I suppose if they didn't do that I might feel differently.

If it's an expensive buffet, the service is usually even more
attentive and I might think about leaving 15 rather than 20.
Again, the difference isn't life changing unless you are miserly.

nancy