[fintstone]

I am not sure I have figured modern tipping out. It really seems to vary from place to place in the US as I travel. I usually figure 20% and round up. Some folks look like they are about to soil themselves if I leave a 20-25% tip. Even chase me down thinking I made a mistake...telling me it is too much as I walk away. Other places, it seems like they would like to soil me (far too low). It is also annoying that many place expect the same percentage tip with a carryout order as when you eat there.

I hate restaurant gift cards and usually give them away to young or old relatives (that may not be quite as far along with their finances), so I don't have to use them. It provides a treat they could not otherwise afford. I typically pay with also reduces risk of card number theft (don't like folks to walk away with my card).