nothing against waitstaff, but any tip over 20% (and you had to be REAL GOOD to get that, otherwise you get the 15) is fucking ridiculous unless the meal came with a blowjob. example, if i take some chick out to a plain ol' pub i pay 13.99 for each meal, plus 12 bucks for two beers, plus a 7% sales tax and THEN a 5% "prepared food" tax and FUCKING THEN a 3% "county tax". i'm already getting raped 15% for tax. total tab for grilled salmon and beer for 2 people = 46 bucks for something that the menu makes seem like it costs around 38 (the menus here are only required to mention the sales tax). then on top of that i'm supposed to dish out another 10 dollars (at 20%) just because it's "polite"? don't get me wrong, i will tip well when warrented, but if you are working on tips you need to earn them. and by "earn" i don't mean dropping a plate in front me and never returning to refill my soda, check if the food is good, bring steak sauce, etc. and if you make me wait for the check when i'm clearly waiting to leave, you will not get the 20%. i fucking hate being held prisoner in a restaurant waiting for the check.
edit: food delivery i give a flat 5 bucks plus change no matter how small the order. i live in the hood and i reward big hairy cajones. most places won't even deliver here so if you bring me food you are my hero.