Re: On tipping for coffee

Q: I bought a drink at a coffee shop that came to $4.22 with tax. I was
presented with three tip options: $1, $2 or $3 — 25%, 50% or 75%,
respectively.
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Since there weren’t any seats left in the shop, and therefore I was
taking my coffee to go (thus reducing the need to clean off a table or
otherwise deal with my presence in the store), I tipped $1 (25%).
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The barista glared at me as though I’d insulted her, and looked like
she’d been slapped in the face.
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What am I missing? I realize coffee shop workers aren’t rich, but my job
doesn’t pay extravagant wages, either. I tip more when I consume my
drink in the shop, or when I pose some kind of inconvenience to the
staff.
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A: When it comes to tipping, which is supposed to be a compliment, it is
almost impossible not to insult someone somehow.
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I once found myself giving offense by tipping a hotel worker for storing
my luggage. It seems that he was a manager, and thus above accepting
tips — a stance I admire but rarely encounter.
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The tip I will give you is to tip in cash. Doing it electronically, and
in full view of the other party, is designed to shame the customer into
being more generous than intended. Better not to fall for it.