> We tip on the full amount and I think most people do. But we figure the percentage on the amount before taxes. Our sales tax rate is 9.75%. If it was 3% like it once was, we might not bother.
>
> We also tend to overtip for outstanding service, and undertip for the other kind.
>
> I have seen servers scowl when we order water. I think that is because water doesn't pad up bill like other dinks. But I have to chose from drinks without sugar and sometimes water is about the only choice. I understand alcohol is also not recommended for diabetics, but that is no problem for me since I don't drink alcohol.
> Howard

Sounds like we tip the same way (tipping before taxes, higher for good service, lower for bad). Although I have to admit I have a harder time tipping lower for bad service. I always feel like there may be some reason we don't know of that the server gave bad service... perhaps they are having a bad day (death in the family, break-up, car broke down, etc)? I know, unlikely, but I like to give people the benefit of the doubt. I cannot bring myself to leave no tip at all (unless we are in NZ, where they don't tip). Sam doesn't seem to have this problem.

Also, we almost always order water. The times I went out to dinner with my parents as a kid, we would order water for the drink. I guess it got to be a habit, and now I have a really hard time ordering anything but water. Skipping soda and dessert means we can eat out twice as much. ;)

-Leen