When you travel to a foreign country, knowing how to handle the bill at a restaurant is just as important as knowing what to order. Tipping customs vary significantly depending on the country, and what feels perfectly natural to you may be considered rude somewhere else. A little research before your trip can save you from an awkward situation at the table.
In the United States, it is customary to tip 15 to 20 percent of the total bill. This gratuity is not included in the listed price and is expected to be left for the server as a sign of appreciation. Most people leave the tip in cash on the table when they depart, though you can also add it to your credit card payment. It is worth noting that tax is not included in the listed price, so the amount on your receipt will be slightly higher than what you see on the menu.
The situation is quite different in Asia. Leaving money on the table in Japan may be considered rude, as it can imply that the staff is not being paid fairly. Tipping is not expected in Japan, whereas it is almost mandatory in the United States and Canada, where servers depend on gratuities for a large portion of their income. In many European countries, a service charge is already included in the bill, so always check your receipt carefully before leaving anything extra.
When dining with a group, it is common to split the bill evenly among friends. However, some restaurants may not be able to process multiple payments at the same table, so it is wise to ask in advance. If you want to show appreciation, you can also round up the bill to the nearest whole number or leave a small extra amount as a gesture of thanks.
When you are ready to leave, simply say to your server, "Could I have the check, please?" In most countries, the bill will not come automatically, so you need to ask. Understanding these simple rules will help you feel more confident and show respect for the culture of every place you visit.