Gray's Academy

In Italy, as in most of Europe, workers in the service industry are paid a living wage by their employer. The tipping culture in the U.S. is out of control. Why should I, the customer, be the one to help the owner of the establishment pay his employees? If the owner can’t afford to pay the employees a living wage then maybe the business should close.

Sure,the employees hopefully share the tips, but isn’t that the whole point? The dishwasher is certainly not making enough anywhere in Virginia to pay for a home, a car, health insurance on what is made from washing dishes and let’s be honest – a restaurant won’s survive if the dishes are not clean.

I tip generously when I dine out and I will continue to do so because these individuals are not paid enough by the owner of the restaurant. It’s my way of saying thank you for working for someone who doesn’t appreciate the work you do.