A restaurant server has been criticized on social media after tracking down a customer on Instagram to question them about the size of the tip they left.
Leaving a tip after a meal is something that divides the internet. In Europe, tipping is not as mandatory as it is in the United States. While your meal may have been expensive, the tip usually reflects the quality of the service.
It’s something many food reviewers mention as a key part of their videos. After visiting Etra in East Hollywood, Asia, known as The Foodiebitch , posted an Instagram reel about her experience, praising the service, even though she thought the food was a bit pricey.
“This is why the staff is important,” the Instagrammer said, calling them “nice” and “knowledgeable” about the menu. However, one of the servers responded to her post, questioning why she didn’t leave a bigger tip.
“Hey Asia! Respectfully, I’m wondering what you were lacking in terms of service? You had some kind words for us as a team here, but you left us a really bad tip,” they said.
Asia responded, claiming she left a 15% tip. “Hi! Respectfully, it’s hard for me to justify a 20-30% tip on top of the very expensive food :/ I believe I left 15% next time I have to decide between a glass of wine or a heavier tip!”
The waiter appreciated the response, noting that the cost of eating out is “getting outrageous,” but disagreed with the 15% claim. “It was less than 15% of the money we took home, and even if it had been 15, it still would have stung considering the service was applauded there and here,” they told another commenter.
The exchange attracted others. “LOL, the tip right in your comments immediately killed my desire to try this right away. Thanks,” commented one. “Really insane vibe to be such a harsh critic of small businesses and also be a terrible one,” argued another.
“15% is absolutely fine. WTAF,” said another. “I work in food service and I have to say, this is one of the most disrespectful things I’ve ever seen,” added another. “Asking him why you didn’t tick more is insane,” commented another.
The food reviewer said she had been “bullied into the 20% minimum tip” moving forward.
