How much should I tip in NYC?

Standard NYC restaurant tip is 18-20% of pre-tax subtotal. 22-25% for exceptional service. Doubling the tax (~17.75%) is a quick rule of thumb for the lower end.

Do I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?

Etiquette varies — most NYC diners tip on the pre-tax subtotal. Post-tax tipping adds about 1.6% to total tip.

Is tip included automatically in NYC?

For parties of 6 or more, many NYC restaurants add an automatic 18-20% gratuity. Always check the bill before tipping again.

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NYC Tip Calculator

8.875% NYC sales tax + customizable tip percentage + bill split. Bookmark this page — you'll need it tonight.

Your bill

Subtotal (before tax)

Tip percentage

Custom: %

Tip on post-tax amount (less common in NYC)

Split between (people)

Total

Subtotal$0.00

NYC sales tax (8.875%)$0.00

Tip (18%)$0.00

Total$0.00

Per person$0.00

NYC etiquette quick guide Standard tip is 18–20% on the pre-tax subtotal. 22–25% for exceptional service or large parties. For parties of 6 or more, many NYC restaurants add an automatic 18–20% gratuity — check the bill first. Cash tips at the table are appreciated by servers; card tips work fine but go through payroll.

Common questions

What is the NYC sales tax on restaurant meals?

8.875% total — 4% NY State + 4.5% NYC + 0.375% Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District (MCTD). Restaurants must include this on the bill.

Should I tip on pre-tax or post-tax?

Standard NYC practice is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal. Tipping on post-tax adds about 1.6% to total tip. This calculator defaults to pre-tax; toggle the checkbox if you prefer post-tax.

Is gratuity automatically included in NYC?

For parties of 6+, most NYC restaurants add 18–20% automatic gratuity. Check your bill carefully before tipping again. The auto-grat must be disclosed on the menu in NYC.

How much should I tip the bartender?

$1–2 per drink, or 18–20% of the tab if you're running one. NYC bartenders rely heavily on tips.

What about delivery and takeout?

Delivery: 15–20% with a $5 minimum. Takeout: 10% is appreciated, especially for large orders or busy restaurants.

NYC Tip Calculator

Your bill

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