A server’s viral TikTok video has sparked heated debate after he publicly expressed frustration over customers who fail to leave a 20% tip. Ben Raanan, known on TikTok as @blazikenben, vented his dissatisfaction with smaller tips like $5 or $10, calling them “not cute” and insufficient for the service provided.
In the video, Ben explains that a $10 tip on a larger bill, such as $50, doesn’t go far enough to compensate for his work. He claims that as prices rise due to inflation, a standard 20% tip should be the minimum. “You can’t just leave a little cute $5, a little cute $10 for your server, and think that’s like fun and cute,” Ben stated, adding that such tips are disrespectful to those working in the service industry.
He went on to offer advice on how to calculate a fair tip, suggesting that customers should aim for 20% of the total bill. He even encouraged fellow servers to confront customers who leave inadequate tips, calling out the need for awareness of proper tipping practices.
Credit: Getty.
While some people supported Ben’s views, others were quick to criticize him. Many users argued that tipping should not be considered an entitlement, especially when customers may be struggling financially. One TikTok user commented, “I’m so tired of servers being sooooo entitled; inflation affects us all.” Another user pointed out that tipping should be voluntary and not mandatory, questioning the rationale behind the 20% tipping rule.
Additionally, some users expressed concern over inflation and its effect on people’s ability to afford larger tips. Others felt that the service provided doesn’t necessarily correlate with the price of the meal, and thus, tipping based on the cost of the food felt unjust.
The tipping debate continues, with some suggesting that restaurant owners should pay their staff adequately, instead of relying on customers to fill the wage gap. Regardless of where you stand, the conversation has certainly sparked a much-needed discussion on the future of tipping culture.
What’s your take on this debate? Should servers expect a 20% tip, or should tipping remain voluntary? Let us know in the comments below!
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