servers

Whether a "service charge," "living wage fee" or "happy kitchen fee," how surcharges appear on guest checks—and how they are disclosed—can be key in protecting a restaurant from costly litigation.

Surcharges have become routine after residents voted to kill the tip credit. Now, operators and customers are coming across the unexpected side effects.

Inflation, guest expectations and a customer’s mood all play into how generous or stingy a tip will be. Good service may have nothing—or a lot—to do with it.