Restaurant Owner Is Also Its Server
Dear Abby | March 21st, 2026 | Letter 3 of 3
DEAR ABBY: I frequent a small local restaurant. The owner is also the server. I believe her husband (or son) is the chef. We're on friendly terms, and I sometimes get a free dessert. When the bill arrives, I am asked on the receipt for a tip, which I have been leaving. But, lately, I feel I'm paying extra for my meal or paying for that free dessert -- and then some. I mean, who am I tipping? It's not like the server is a hired employee. I need to know, must I leave a tip? What is proper when it comes to tipping the owner who is also the server? -- CONFOUNDED IN FLORIDA.
DEAR CONFOUNDED: You state that this is a small local restaurant. Restaurants operate on a narrow margin. If the welcome is warm and you enjoy the food and atmosphere, you shouldn't quibble about rewarding the owner(s) with a tip. I don't think the message would be on the bill if a tip was not expected. The amount is up to you.
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