How to Tip a Maitre D'

"Maitre d'" is simply French for "headwaiter" (in case you're wondering, it comes from "maitre d'hotel," or "master of the establishment"). In the restaurant world's chain of command, the maitre d' is the No. 1 staff person. It's great to have the maitre d' remember you, as this is the person who will seat you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tipping Guides
• Etiquette Books

1. Keep in mind that a maitre d' usually receives no tip, except a smile, unless he or she performs an extra service such as changing your table, wrangling you a great window table or bringing in that diamond ring on command.

2. Tip $5 to $10, depending on the above - more if you feel especially generous. If you're a regular patron of the restaurant, tip the maitre d' every few visits.

3. Make the exchange seamless. The money should be surreptitiously passed in a handshake or small, minor exchange.

4. Remember that a stingy tip could affect the service you receive in the future.

Tips & Warnings

• The word "tip," which originated in England, was originally an acronym for the phrase "to insure promptness."
• It is rude to verbally offer the maitre d' money. Either give it or not, but don't ask to "buy" his or her services.

on 7/18/2007 Do not tip when arriving or when a service is performed. Tip right before you leave. Politely remind the maitre d' of your reservation name.

on 11/22/2005 Don't try to bribe them. It's insulting.