This thread was a great idea, Anna. I am fascinated to hear all these opinions.

I eat out alot. Both in restaurants and take-out. I always tip 20% unless something isn't adequate and then, I might start deducting. Most of the time, I tip the 20% anyway. I've never worked as a server but I watch them in restaurants and I usually feel that those people are working their tails off. They're on their feet 8-whatever hours a day. Most of the time they are running from table to table, trying to keep dozens of people happy.

If I can't afford to cover the food and the tip, I shouldn't be there. Tipping is a "given" to me too, just as Pam said. Someone has to do this job and I'm glad it's not me. I have to imagine what it would be like to walk a mile in the server's shoes. If they are trying to please me, then they deserve a good tip.

I have had bad experiences before with bad service or no service and the tip might go down. In these cases, I always figure that that person is having a bad day or they don't belong in that industry. Not long ago, I had a waitress that insulted one of the people in my party. I have never had this happen before. I was astounded by what she did. I still tipped her but not much. Just to add: I emailed her boss and described the incident. I received an apology and a $50 credit for the restaurant.

Anna, I would almost drive to Ohio to visit your Red Lobster. I can imagine it's a dining experience I would never forget. I have to ask you......are your feet killing you most of the time? I don't know how you servers do it.