In a video that’s recently caught the attention of many, a restaurant worker named Lillie, known on TikTok as @mylasoasis_, made a bold statement saying if you’re not prepared to tip, perhaps dining out isn’t for you.
Now amassing over 10,000 views, this video sparked a significant debate on the platform.
Lillie didn’t mince words.
She looked into the camera and declared:
“Eating out is a privilege, not a right. If you can’t spare a 20% tip, maybe you shouldn’t be dining out.”
She touched upon the hotly debated topic of tipping culture in the U.S., emphasizing the financial challenges servers face due to the lack of fixed salaries.
She acknowledged the widespread opinion that servers should receive a regular wage.
However, she quickly pointed out the current reality for her and the 1.6 million other servers across the country.
“You can argue all day that my employer should pay me more, but that’s not how things work here in America,” she remarked.
“I earn a mere $3.63 from my restaurant. The bulk of my income? It comes from tips.”
Lillie further explained the rationale behind the pricing of menu items.
The affordability of dishes is because customers are expected to tip.
“Your meal is priced lower because you’re expected to tip on it,” she explained.
“If tipping isn’t in your budget, perhaps it’s best to opt for takeout or even a trip to McDonald’s.”
Her video’s caption drove her point home:
“For those suggesting we should earn more per hour… that’s not our reality. Choosing not to tip only diminishes your dining experience.”
As expected, the internet had mixed feelings.
Some viewers felt Lillie’s approach was a tad entitled.
One commenter noted:
“I always tip, but if you’re unhappy with the system, perhaps consider a different job that offers an hourly wage.”
Another shared the sentiment, suggesting:
“If your job’s pay isn’t cutting it, it might be time to look elsewhere. This stance is a bit much.”
Yet, there were those in Lillie’s corner.
One supporter commented:
“If you’re against tipping because you believe employers should offer fair wages, then make it a point to support businesses that uphold that standard.”
Another server weighed in, sharing their perspective:
“I get just $2.13 an hour, and we don’t even see regular paychecks.”
However, some believe that while tipping is crucial, it should correlate with the quality of service.
“I’m consistent with a 20% tip or more, unless the service was notably subpar,” a diner shared.
The tipping culture in the U.S. has always been a topic of contention.
While some countries have done away with tipping altogether, relying on service charges or higher wages for staff, the U.S. still largely operates on a tipping system.
This system, while beneficial for some, can be a source of stress for many servers who rely heavily on the generosity of their patrons.
Lillie’s video is a testament to the many voices in the service industry who feel the weight of this system every day.
Whether you agree with her or not, it’s essential to recognize the hard work servers put in and the challenges they face.
What do you think about Lillie’s statement and tipping culture?
Be sure to let us know in the comments.
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Source: The Daily Dot
