There is an interesting story that may explain how tipping began. Some say that in times past, wealthy customers would offer to buy wait staff a drink or a meal as a generous gesture of thanks for good service. Obviously, a server could not sit down and indulge while working, but the thoughtful customer might leave him a small amount of money with which to purchase a drink or a bite to eat when his shift was over. This small gift of gratitude, or "gratuity," may well have developed into what is known today as a tip.

WHY SHOULD I LEAVE A TIP?

"Why should I pay somebody else's employees?" This question is asked frequently, and the answer is simple. The owner of the establishment certainly could pay the employees more money, but he or she would have no choice but to raise prices in that case.

By allowing you the option of tipping, you are allowed to decide how much you are willing to pay for that meal. The menu price, plus tax, plus tip –even a generous tip- is less than you would pay for the same meal if the waiter were making even minimum wage.

In many cases, the owner would at least have to double the employee's rate of pay just to reach minimum wage. If he or she was forced to double each waitperson's pay, it isn't difficult to see how quickly a night out to dinner would be priced out of reach for many people. By splitting the cost between many customers, at a few dollars each, the employee makes enough money to live on, the owner is able to keep the cost down, the customer can afford to go out to eat, and everyone is happy.