It started with extra charges for carry-out. Then there were pandemic service fees, followed by a 3% “kitchen appreciation” tax. Those were on top of tips, which used to be 20% but have quietly ballooned to as much as 25% and more. Now some diners say they’ve had enough, after spotting another expected add-on at the bottom of their bill. A “living wage fee” is the latest tack-on. One diner, who ordered a hamburger meal, posted a photo of the receipt on Instagram.
The fee sparked outrage online, with many calling it deceptive. Others said the business must be poorly run if the staff can’t be paid a living wage without the added fee. Yet others were more positive about the fee, suggesting it could be a way for the restaurant to deal with inflation weariness. Americans are increasingly pushing back against “tipflation," with some vowing to never eat out again.
