As a hospitality expert with extensive experience in the service industry, I've often been asked about tipping etiquette, especially in places like Las Vegas, where tipping is a significant part of the service culture. It's important to understand that tipping is not just a nice gesture but a vital source of income for many service professionals.

In Las Vegas, cocktail waitresses, much like dealers, are paid a minimum wage by the casinos and rely heavily on tips to make a living. The standard practice is to tip $1 per drink ordered. This might seem small, but it adds up quickly. For a waitress who serves a high volume of customers, even tipping at this rate can significantly boost their annual earnings.

However, it's also common for patrons to tip every other drink, especially if they are ordering multiple drinks at once. This can still result in a substantial tip amount, potentially contributing to an annual income of nearly $40,000 for a waitress, even after accounting for the 20% tip-out to the bartender. This percentage is a standard practice and is a way for the waitress to share a portion of her tips with the bartender, who also contributes to the overall service experience.

When determining the amount to tip, consider a few factors:


1. Service Quality: If the service is exceptional, you might consider tipping more than the standard rate to show your appreciation.

2. Frequency of Orders: If you're ordering drinks frequently, tipping $1 per drink can be quite rewarding for the waitress.

3. Casino's Tipping Policy: Some casinos may have specific tipping policies or suggest a tipping range. It's always good to be aware of these guidelines.

4. Personal Budget: Ultimately, tipping should be within your means. It's a personal decision based on your satisfaction with the service and your financial comfort.

Remember, tipping is a personal choice and can vary based on individual preferences and the specific circumstances of your visit. The key is to be generous within your means, recognizing the hard work and effort that goes into providing excellent service.

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Just like the dealers, cocktail waitresses are paid minimum wage by the casinos and make their livelihood from tips. The standard tip is $1 per drink, but even $1 every other drink still means nearly $40,000/yr. in earnings for a waitress, even after their 20% tip-out to the bartender, so that's what I tip.read more >>