Man’s 25% Tip Refusal Sparks Debate Over Tipping Culture

Man’s 25% Tip Refusal Sparks Debate Over Tipping Culture

A social media post has ignited a nationwide conversation after a diner’s refusal to leave a 25% tip at a restaurant went viral this week. The incident — which took place at a popular local bistro — has reopened deep divides over tipping norms, service expectations and the role of gratuity in modern hospitality.

The Incident That Started It All

According to the original poster, who shared a photo of the receipt online, a man dining with friends opted not to leave a 25% tip after his meal. When a friend urged him to tip generously, the man responded that service had been “fine but not exceptional,” and that a 25% gratuity — well above the customary rate — wasn’t justified.

The post quickly attracted thousands of comments and sparked heated debate across social media platforms, with opinions sharply split between those who supported the man’s choice and those who defended tipping culture — or even criticized him for refusing the extra gratuity.