On Fri, 21 Dec 2007 10:37:04 -0600, "Pat"
wrote:
>Here in the USA, restaurant employees are paid half of the minimum wage and
>are expected to make up the remainder of their salary in tips. I believe it
>is the only industry where the patrons are expected to pay at least half of
>the salaries of the workers employed. How is it done in various countries
>in Europe?
>
>Pat in TX
No minimum wage in Germany, although the issue is being hotly debated.
However, it seems that staff are often paid a wage that they can live
on. Also, in the summer, lots of students work as waiting staff.
Tips are relatively modest - the convention is to "round up" - so if
your bill comes to € 18,20 you round it up to (say) €20.
However, if the service is lousy, you don't tip at all. Couple of
nights ago I was eating out with friends and had to ask for the bill 3
times. No tip.
I believe the word is derived from "To ensure Prompt Service." No
prompt service = no tip. Same goe for the UK.
>
Keith (formerly of Bristol UK)
now moved to Berlin/nach Berlin umgezogen |