A primer on tipping etiquette in Paris for American tourists is important, as tipping norms can be confusing for those traveling to France. In France, bills at restaurants automatically include a service fee of 15%, so patrons are not required to tip extra unless they feel the service was exceptional. Service staff in France are less dependent on tips to earn a living wage compared to their counterparts in the US.
Another cultural difference in France is that service people are generally less solicitous of customers, as good service does not result in the same monetary reward as in the US. Waiters may not introduce themselves or serve with a smile, as they aim to convey that they are not servants. Waitstaff in Paris may not meet American expectations of service, but this is a reflection of cultural norms rather than poor service.
Some restaurants in Paris may try to take advantage of American tourists by encouraging them to leave larger tips, even though the service charge is already included in the bill. This tactic is more common in touristy spots than in places that locals frequent. Some establishments may include a line on the bill stating that tipping is not included, even though a service charge is added. This practice is seen as a way to capitalize on tourists who are unfamiliar with tipping norms in France.
When dining out in Paris, it is customary to leave a small amount of loose change for good service, even though a service charge is already included. Rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra Euros is seen as a gesture of appreciation for good service. It is essential for tourists to familiarize themselves with the tipping customs of the country they are visiting to avoid being taken advantage of unknowingly.
Travel experts recommend asking if the service charge is included when prompted to leave a tip on a credit card payment. This can help prevent falling for tipping ruses that some restaurants may use to extract extra money from tourists. Understanding the tipping culture of the country you are visiting can prevent misunderstandings and ensure that you are not over-tipping unknowingly. When in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution and respect local customs regarding tipping.
