In today's dining landscape, it's quite common to encounter tipping options at fast food restaurants and other over-the-counter spots. When you're ordering to go and getting ready to pay, a screen often pops up asking for a tip. Hawaii News Now decided to find out what customers at the Kuhio Food Hall in Waikiki think about this. Hank Ravestein said, "No, it doesn't matter (if it's takeout or sit down), I tip 15%." Ernest Lee, however, has a different view. He stated, "If I am standing ordering my meal and getting it to sit down, then typically, it's not tipped." Mike Palmer, a board member of the Hawaii Restaurant Association and the owner of the Kuhio Food Mall in Waikiki, explained that tipping depends on the situation. He said, "So I just tell people do what you are comfortable with — if you don't want to tip, don't tip, if you get great service and encourage that person behind the counter, you know they are working hard for their money." Palmer also added that while many are stuck with tipping based on percentages, there are other options, especially for over-the-counter service. "On almost every tipping system that has that option, people don't realize, they think they have to automatically put in 15 to 20, 25%, but there is usually an option on those screens like ours says you hit 'other,' you tip a custom amount — 50 cents, a dollar, whatever." He emphasized that a customer should not feel obligated to tip for mediocre or bad service. Instead, it should be based on the service provided. He further pointed out, "A lot of times, counter service people are not the highest compensated in the industry and I think personally, it's a great way to stimulate the economy by giving people an extra buck or two." For Andrew Thomas, a server at the food mall, getting a tip is always appreciated but not expected. He said, "I just expect people to know that if they want to go ahead and, it makes my day and I just give them my service, whether they tip or not." And that's a tip on tipping that is definitely something to think about.

Tipping Dilemmas and Options

At fast food and over-the-counter establishments in Hawaii, the issue of tipping has become a topic of discussion. As seen at the Kuhio Food Hall, customers like Hank Ravestein believe in tipping 15% regardless of whether it's takeout or dine-in. On the other hand, Ernest Lee has a more selective approach, only tipping when sitting down to enjoy the meal. Mike Palmer highlights the flexibility in tipping, stating that customers should do what they feel comfortable with. He also draws attention to the alternative of custom tipping, where customers can choose to tip an amount other than the standard percentages. This gives customers more control over their tipping decisions and allows them to show appreciation based on the service received. It's important to note that counter service people often receive lower compensation, and tipping can be a way to support them and stimulate the economy. Andrew Thomas's perspective emphasizes that while tips are appreciated, they should not be the sole expectation of service.Another aspect to consider is the impact of tipping on the overall dining experience. Tipping can add an extra layer of appreciation for good service, but it should not be a burden for customers. Palmer's advice to base tipping on the service provided encourages a more fair and reasonable approach. It allows customers to recognize and reward exceptional service while also being able to withhold tips when the service is lacking. This balance ensures that both customers and service providers have a positive interaction. In conclusion, tipping at fast food and over-the-counter establishments in Hawaii is a complex issue with various perspectives and options. By understanding these, customers can make more informed decisions and contribute to a better dining environment.