Tipping has long been a common practice in the restaurant industry, especially in countries like the United States, where it’s often expected and even required as part of the worker’s wages.
However, tipping is not a global standard, and in many countries around the world, it’s not a part of the dining culture at all.
In fact, there are countries where tipping at restaurants is either discouraged or completely unnecessary.
If you’re planning a trip to any of these places, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about whether you’re leaving the right amount of tip.
Let’s take a look at nine countries where you can dine at restaurants tip-free.
1. Japan: Where Service Excellence Is Standard
In Japan, tipping is seen as unnecessary and even a little bit rude. The Japanese take great pride in providing excellent service without expecting anything in return.
It’s ingrained in the culture that service excellence is a matter of professional pride. Whether you’re dining at a local restaurant or enjoying sushi at a high-end eatery, the service will be top-notch, and you won’t need to leave a tip.
Instead, a polite “thank you” or even a bow is appreciated more than any monetary reward.
2. South Korea: A No-Tip Culture
South Korea follows a similar philosophy when it comes to tipping. Service workers in restaurants are well-compensated, and tipping is simply not a part of the culture.
It can even be seen as an insult, suggesting that the worker doesn’t make enough money. Whether you’re enjoying Korean barbecue or a bowl of bibimbap, you won’t need to worry about adding an extra tip to your bill.
3. Brazil: Service Charges Often Included
In Brazil, while tipping is not mandatory, you may encounter a service charge included in your bill, particularly in upscale or touristy restaurants.
This fee generally ranges from 10-15% and is usually split among the staff. It’s worth checking your bill before deciding to leave an additional tip.
While it’s perfectly fine to leave extra for exceptional service, it’s not expected or required by the culture.
4. China: No Tipping, Please
In China, tipping is considered an unusual and even disrespectful practice. While the concept of tipping is slowly being introduced in high-end hotels and restaurants in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai, it is still largely unnecessary throughout the country.
Service in China is often seen as part of the restaurant’s duty, and workers are paid a fair wage without relying on tips. In rural areas or local eateries, leaving a tip can be perceived as patronizing.
5. Denmark: Excellent Service Without the Tip
Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world, and its approach to tipping is just one of the many reasons why.
In Denmark, service workers are paid well and are not dependent on tips. Most restaurants will already include a service charge in the bill, so there’s no need to leave an extra tip.
While it’s not mandatory, some diners choose to round up their bill or leave a small amount for exceptional service, but it’s not expected or required.
6. Belgium: Service Fees Are Included
Like Denmark, Belgium has a no-tipping culture where restaurant workers receive a fair wage for their work.
In many cases, a service fee is already included in your total bill, often between 10-15%. This fee is intended to ensure that staff members are compensated adequately.
Tipping, therefore, is not necessary, though some patrons may leave a small extra amount if they feel the service was exceptional. Nonetheless, leaving a tip in Belgium is always optional.
7. Australia: Tipping Is Not the Norm
Australia is known for its laid-back lifestyle, and tipping isn’t a major part of the dining culture. While service staff in high-end establishments may appreciate a tip for exceptional service, it is not a requirement.
In fact, tipping is not expected in casual restaurants or cafes, and service workers are paid a fair wage that doesn’t rely on tips.
Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a local pub or dining at a fine-dining restaurant, you won’t be expected to leave a tip.
8. New Zealand: No Need to Tip
New Zealand, like its neighbor Australia, doesn’t have a tipping culture. Service workers are paid a fair wage, and tipping is entirely discretionary.
While a small tip might be appreciated in upscale restaurants, it’s not expected, and it’s certainly not necessary.
In fact, tipping can sometimes make staff feel uncomfortable, as it may be seen as undermining their professionalism.
Just enjoy your meal, and if you feel the service was exceptional, leaving a small tip is entirely up to you.
9. Singapore: Service Charges Are Included
Singapore is another country where tipping is not expected. Instead, many restaurants will include a service charge of 10% in the bill.
This service charge is intended to ensure that restaurant staff are fairly compensated, eliminating the need for tipping.
While you may choose to leave a small tip for outstanding service, it’s not customary and is entirely at your discretion.
In Singapore, dining is about enjoying the experience, and you don’t need to stress over calculating a tip.
Alicia Richards