Bengaluru YouTuber sparks debate after calling New York's tipping culture a 'scam'. Viral post

Ishan Sharma called the tipping system in New York a 'scam.'

An Indian YouTuber, Ishan Sharma, currently in the United States, has ignited a significant online debate after criticising the tipping culture prevalent in the country. The incident that led to his post occurred at a restaurant in New York City, where Sharma claimed that a server refused to return the change from his payment, instead taking it as a tip.

According to Sharma, after ordering food worth $45, he paid $50 in cash. When he asked for the $5 balance, the server allegedly told him that he "had to pay the tip" and then walked away. Sharma expressed his frustration on the social media platform X, calling the tipping system in New York a "scam."

He further explained that when he questioned whether tipping was mandatory, his inquiry was ignored. Sharma also noted that his American friend felt embarrassed by the incident, suggesting that the expectation of tipping is deeply ingrained in U.S. culture.

Tipping is such a scam in New York!

Why do I pay extra just because restaurants pay minimum hourly wages?

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I asked for change and she said "you have to pay… pic.twitter.com/9ggEZHIoft

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— Ishan Sharma (@Ishansharma7390) August 20, 2024

Meanwhile, tipping practices in the United States differ significantly from those in India. In the U.S., it is customary to tip waitstaff in restaurants 15-20% of the total bill. This practice is not merely a gesture of appreciation but a crucial component of a server's income. The federal minimum wage in the U.S. is $7.25 per hour, but many service industry workers earn less, with tips compensating for the difference. In some cases, employees can be paid as little as $2.13 per hour if they regularly receive tips.

Given that servers in the U.S. often depend on tips for a living wage, failing to tip is considered a breach of social norms, if not outright disrespectful. This stands in contrast to India, where tipping is viewed as discretionary and is typically reserved for exceptional service rather than being an expected part of the dining experience.

Sharma's post provoked a polarised response on social media. Many users, including fellow Indians, criticised Sharma for not adhering to the customary practices of the country he was visiting. Some commenters invoked the saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do," arguing that visitors should respect local customs. Others accused Sharma of perpetuating negative stereotypes about Indians abroad.

One user wrote, "15-20% tip is a customary social custom in the USA. When in Rome, do as Romans do. If you strongly feel that tipping is wrong, then don't order food at a sit-down restaurant." Another user expressed frustration, saying, "You are the reason why the globe is becoming racist against Indians. Stop being cheap."

One user stated, "Take your rupees back where you came from cheapskate."