Question 1

How much should I tip at a restaurant in Canada?

Accepted Answer

In Canada, 15% is the standard minimum tip for adequate service at a sit-down restaurant. 18% is considered good service, and 20% or more is for excellent service. Tipping 10%–12% is acceptable for counter service or takeout. Tipping is generally expected at full-service restaurants — not tipping is considered rude except in cases of genuinely poor service.

Question 2

Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Tipping etiquette in Canada is split: some tip on the pre-tax (subtotal) amount, while others tip on the total including HST/GST. The traditional Canadian standard is to tip on the pre-tax amount. However, many Canadians tip on the total for simplicity. The difference on a $100 meal is about $1.50–$2.60 depending on your province's tax rate.

Question 3

Do I need to tip on takeout or delivery in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Tipping for takeout is optional but appreciated — 10% is a reasonable amount for pickup orders. For delivery through apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, 10%–15% is standard, noting that drivers receive a large portion of that tip. For direct delivery from a restaurant, tip the driver 15%.

Question 4

What HST rate applies to restaurant meals in Canada?

Accepted Answer

HST rates in Canada vary by province: Ontario, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and PEI charge 13% or 15% HST. Alberta has no PST and charges only 5% GST. British Columbia charges 5% GST + 7% PST = 12% combined. Most other provinces charge 5% GST + provincial PST.

Service Type	Suggested Tip
Full-service restaurant	15–20%
Excellent restaurant service	20–25%
Counter service / café	0–10%
Food delivery (app)	10–15%
Hotel housekeeping (per night)	$2–$5/night
Taxi / rideshare	10–15%
Hair salon / barber	15–20%
Massage therapist	15–20%
Movers	5–10% of total bill
Pizza delivery	$3–5 minimum

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🇨🇦 Canadian Tipping Guide

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