In the fourth of our series on tipping culture we look at a Toronto establishment that has decided to do away with tipping.
This is the fourth installment of our nascent series analysing the many facets of tipping culture, speaking with those who advocate for a better way, and those who feel that the hospitality sector’s unique set-up works and should not be trifled with.
This week we take a trip up to Bayview Avenue to speak with Hemant Bhagwani (Proprietor) and Yatin Bhatia (General Manager) of The Indian Street Food Co., who back in November of 2015 introduced a strict no-tipping policy.
It takes considerable courage to take a stand like that, especially when tipping has become so much of a social norm that the majority of customers routinely tip 15% even if they experience bad service. Owner Bhagwani explains the reasonings behind his decisions for such a radical move, and we ask both him and his GM how this self-imposed non-tipping environment works… and indeed if it actually DOES work in practice.
If you are having trouble viewing this video please click here.
Edinburgh-born/Toronto-based Sommelier, consultant, writer, judge, and educator Jamie Drummond is the Director of Programs/Editor of Good Food Revolution… And he thinks that the Indian Street Food Co’s move is a step in the right direction.
I’ve read, with interest, all your posts about tipping. I’m still not on board. Below are links to my blog where I set out my own feelings about tip-included pricing.
http://www.youhavebeenserved.ca/2016/04/01/banning-tipping-is-the-new-organic-part-one/
http://www.youhavebeenserved.ca/2016/04/01/banning-tipping-is-the-new-organic-part-two/