Tipping in Ireland: how it works

In Ireland, a tip is a thank-you for good service, not a fixed charge. Check your bill first to see whether a service charge has been added. If it has, you do not need to add more. If it has not, a modest tip for good table service is normal, and you can leave nothing if the service was poor.

Check the bill

Before you add anything, read the bill. Some places add a service charge, especially for larger groups, and print it as a line. The menu or the bottom of the bill may say so. If it is there, you have already paid for service. If you are unsure, ask the server whether service is included.

When a tip is normal

Tips are normal for table service in restaurants, cafes with waiters and bars where someone brings your food. Many people round up the bill or add a modest amount. There is no single number, and nobody will chase you for one.

When it is not expected

Counter service, takeaways and coffee at the counter do not usually call for a tip, though a tip jar may be there and a small contribution is welcome. In a pub, buying a drink at the bar does not need a tip, though some people leave something for good service or a long evening.

Paying by card

When you pay by card, the terminal often asks whether you want to add a tip. You can enter an amount or press no. It is fine to decline. Some places pass card tips to staff in full, others pool them. If it matters to you, ask.

Cash

Some people prefer to leave cash, because it goes straight to the person who served them. That is fine too. Put it in their hand or on the table.

Large groups

Larger groups often have a service charge added automatically. Check the bill. If it is there, you do not need to add more. If you were unhappy with the service, you can ask the manager to discuss it.

If the service was poor

You do not have to tip. If something went wrong, tell the manager at the time, politely. A good place will fix it.

Gift vouchers and tips

If you paid for your meal with a voucher or a deal, tip on what the meal would have cost, if you can. Staff did the same work.

Delivery and collection

For delivery, a small tip for the driver is common but not required. For collection, none is expected.

A worked example

Suppose four of you have dinner and the bill comes with no service charge. The service was friendly and quick. A modest tip, rounded up to a figure that feels fair, is a normal thank-you. Suppose instead the bill shows a service charge: you have already paid for service, and you can pay and go. If you want to add a little for someone who went out of their way, give it in cash to that person.

If you are unsure

Ask. A quiet "is service included?" at the end of the meal is a normal question, and nobody will think it odd. It is far better than guessing and tipping twice, or not at all, and being unhappy about it afterwards.

A note for visitors

If you are used to a different custom, do not worry. Staff in Ireland are used to visitors, and nobody will think less of you for asking. Our guide to eating well on a short visit has more tips for visitors.