In recent years, the way we tip has undergone a significant transformation. Thanks to the rise of contactless and digital payment apps, adding a tip ranging from 15% to 25% to your order has never been easier.
However, this convenience doesn’t necessarily translate to more Americans tipping. Even as businesses adjust to a new normal, tipping habits have remained somewhat steady.
According to recent reports, the average tip at sit-down restaurants in the U.S. hovers around 19.4%. Meanwhile, for quick-service restaurants and breweries, platforms indicate that average tips have dipped to 16.1%, down from 17% in 2022. Overall, tipping remained stable throughout 2023.
Pew Research findings reveal that Americans are most likely to tip at sit-down restaurants (92%), followed by food delivery (76%) and bar drinks (70%). In contrast, only 12% of Americans leave a tip at fast-casual dining establishments.
While many customers are willing to tip, some might just need a gentle nudge in the right direction. Despite the user-friendly tipping options where about 66.6% of users include tips in their transactions, nothing quite compares to the classic tip jar sitting on the counter.
To encourage tipping, consider introducing a friendly competition, leveraging cultural references, or offering small incentives like freebies. Make the tipping experience fun and engaging to remind customers to show appreciation for their bartenders.
One effective strategy is to start shifts with a few bills in the tip jar. This subtle approach creates a sense of community and serves as a gentle reminder that tipping is a shared practice. If you’re looking for inspiration to boost those tips, check out the best tip jar ideas we've compiled, featuring emotional appeals, humor, and playful rivalry.
Further reading
Puns and humor
Everyone loves a clever play on words, and your bartenders will certainly appreciate the tips that come with a dash of humor. A funny tip jar message can lighten the mood and encourage patrons to show appreciation.
Here are some tried-and-true puns and humorous suggestions that can get the cash flowing:
- "All Tips Go Towards Paying Off the Student Loans We’ve Taken for the Degrees We’re Not Using” — @gayeabandon
Who can resist helping a struggling college grad? After all, those loans won’t pay themselves!
- “Tipping: Bad for Cows, Good for Us” — @cnrguys
Nothing gets the giggles going quite like a bit of cow humor. Bonus points if you add a cute doodle of a cow to accompany the message!
- “Every Tip Gets Us Closer to a Free Lunch”
Encourage patrons to help your staff enjoy their meals! Let them know that every little bit counts towards a well-deserved break.
- “Help Us Avoid a Coffee Crisis”
A playful nod to the caffeine dependency many bartenders share, reminding customers that their tips help keep the coffee flowing.
- “We Knead the Dough”— @feelingtipsynyc
Got beer and pizza? This playful pun will entice patrons to contribute and maybe even earn a bigger slice of the pie.
- “Pour Decisions are Always Free”
A fun play on words that highlights the lighter side of drinking, encouraging patrons to contribute to the fun!
- “Tips: The Secret Ingredient to Great Service”
A straightforward message that connects generous tipping with enhanced service quality.
- “Help Us Keep Our Spirits High!”
A cheerful reminder that tips can help lift spirits—both for staff and patrons alike.
- “Join the Tip Jar Club—Membership Includes Gratitude!”
Make tipping feel exclusive by inviting customers to join a “club” that appreciates their support.
- “Tips for Tales and Taps”
If your bartenders have interesting stories to tell, remind patrons that their tips contribute to these engaging conversations.
- “Tip Me Baby One More Time”
Give a nod to Britney Spears with this catchy line. After everything she’s been through this year, the least we can do is tip in her honor!
- “Currently Accepting All Bills” — @feelingtipsynyc
It’s a toss-up: would you prefer Bill Murray or dollar bills? For now, let’s settle for both!
- “Every Coin Leads to a New Life” — @feelingtipsynyc
Who doesn’t relate to Mario and his never-ending quest for coins? Encourage guests to outdo each other with their tips and turn the jar into a fun competition.
- “Is This Real Life? Or Is This Just Fan-tip-sy?”
Feature Freddie Mercury on your tip jar and watch the tipping volume rise—at least, it will be worth a shot!
- “Gotta Tip 'em All!”
Pokémon Go! may have faded, but that doesn’t mean your patrons can’t be compelled to tip like trainers catching ’em all.
- “Tip Your Server, They’re Un-BEE-LIEVABLE!”
A playful nod to bees, perfect for a buzzing bar atmosphere.
- “You’re the ‘Brew’-tiful People Who Keep Us Going!”
Great for coffee shops or bars that serve beer, this pun emphasizes appreciation.
- “Your Tips are the ‘Cherry’ on Top!”
Ideal for dessert spots or ice cream shops, highlighting the extra sweetness of tipping.
- “A Little Change Goes a Long Way!”
A simple reminder that even small contributions make a difference.
- “We Can’t Do It Without You—Literally!”
A humorous reminder that tips support staff directly.
- “Feed the Tip Jar, It’s Hungry!”
A lighthearted way to encourage patrons to add to the jar.
- “Good Service is a ‘Tip’ Above the Rest!”
This emphasizes the quality of service while playfully incorporating the idea of tipping.
- “Every Tip Counts, Don’t Be Shy!”
A friendly invitation to patrons to contribute without hesitation.
- “Your Tips Keep the Fun Flowing!”
A fun twist that connects tips to an enjoyable experience.
- “Tipping is a Way to Show You Care!”
Highlighting that tips are a form of appreciation for good service.
- “A Tip a Day Keeps the Bad Vibes Away!”
Encouraging patrons to tip regularly to maintain a positive atmosphere.
- “Drink Responsibly, Tip Generously!”
A clever reminder to enjoy drinks while also acknowledging great service.
- “Tips Make Our Hearts Skip a Beat!”
A cute play on emotions, connecting tips to appreciation.
- “Leave a Tip, Join the Cool Kids Club!”
Inviting patrons to be part of an exclusive group that shows appreciation for service.
- “Help Us Pay for Our ‘Pour’ Choices!”
A fun twist on the word “poor” to highlight the fun of tipping.
- “Every Coin Brings a Smile!”
Emphasizing that every contribution can brighten someone’s day.
- “We ‘Appreciate’ Your Generosity!”
A fun way to play on the word “appreciate” while reinforcing the importance of tipping.
- “Tip Today for a Better Tomorrow!”
A positive message encourages patrons to think about the impact of their tips.
- “Your Generosity Fuels Our Service!”
Highlighting the direct connection between tips and quality service.
Incorporating humor into your tip jar not only brightens the atmosphere but also encourages customers to contribute more generously.
Consider customizing your messages to fit your establishment's vibe or current events, and don’t hesitate to switch them up regularly to keep things fresh and engaging. Remember, a little laughter goes a long way in creating memorable experiences for your guests and bartenders alike.
Fun ideas from the community
Here are some more creative tip jar ideas inspired by baristas from the Reddit community:
- “Help Us Fund Our Coffee Addiction”
A relatable message that speaks to coffee lovers everywhere. After all, who doesn’t understand the struggle of needing that caffeine fix?
- “Because Adulting is Hard”
This playful reminder acknowledges the challenges of adult life, making patrons more likely to leave a little extra.
- “Every Tip is a Hug in Disguise”
A warm and fuzzy approach that highlights the personal connection between customers and staff.
- “Tips: The Best Way to Say ‘Thanks for Not Spitting in My Drink’”
A cheeky reminder that humor can help smooth out any service hiccups while encouraging generous tips.
- “We’ll Keep the Coffee Coming, You Keep the Tips Coming”
This creates a sense of teamwork between staff and patrons, reminding them that tips fuel great service.
- “This Jar is Way More Fun Than a Piggy Bank”
A light-hearted way to promote your tip jar as the go-to place for spare change!
- “Tips for Good Vibes Only”
Create an inviting atmosphere with a positive message that emphasizes the connection between tips and good service.
- “Your Tips Keep the Music Playing”
If you have live music or a jukebox, let customers know their contributions help support the entertainment they enjoy.
- “Your Generosity Makes Us Shine”
A simple yet effective message that connects generosity with the quality of service provided.
- “Be a Good Egg—Tip for Great Service!”
Use a playful egg theme to encourage customers to show their appreciation in a light-hearted way.
- “Tips Make the World Go Round!”
A fun twist on a popular saying that emphasizes the importance of tips in the service industry.
- “Help Us Build a Better Bar!”
Encourage patrons to contribute to improvements in the bar or restaurant through their tips.
- “Because Every Dollar Counts!”
A straightforward reminder that even small contributions can make a difference.
- “Support Your Local Bartenders!”
A call to action that emphasizes community and local support, encouraging patrons to tip generously.
Use a Funny Tip Jar Sign
Incorporating humor into your tip jar can make it more noticeable and encourage customers to contribute. A witty or funny saying can grab attention and bring a smile to your guests, making them more likely to express their appreciation.
- “Small Change for a Big Smile!”
Encouraging customers to leave a tip while reminding them that every little bit contributes to a positive experience.
- “If You’re Afraid of Change, Leave It Here!”
A playful nudge that invites patrons to part with their spare change in a light-hearted way.
- “Tipping: It’s Not Just for Cows!”
Using humor to highlight the importance of tipping for service, making it relatable and fun.
- “Tips Help Us Keep the Good Vibes Flowing!”
Reminding customers that their contributions help maintain a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere.
- “Thanks a Latte for Your Tips!”
A clever coffee-themed pun that expresses gratitude and adds a personal touch to the tipping process.
- “Your Change Can Brighten Our Day!”
Encouraging patrons to see the impact of their tips, fostering a sense of community and appreciation.
- “I Can Only Swim In Money. Don’t Let Me Drown!” - @guruapproved
This one is actually quite funny. Place a toy fish inside a bowl and create a sign like this to catch the attention of your guests.
Use an opinion poll as your tip jar sign
Transform your tip jar into an engaging opinion poll to connect with your customers. Set up two or more jars labeled with different options, allowing guests to vote with their tips.
This interactive method not only makes tipping enjoyable but also sparks conversations and friendly debates among your guests.
- “Cats vs. Dogs”
Encouraging guests to choose their favorite pet while tipping, fostering fun discussions about their furry companions.
- “Comedy vs. Action”
Letting customers express their movie preferences through their tips, creating lively conversations about film genres.
- “Summer vs. Winter”
Inviting guests to share their favorite season, sparking debates over weather preferences and seasonal activities.
- “Batman vs. Superman”
Engaging comic book fans in a classic superhero showdown, making the tipping experience more playful.
- “Morning Person vs. Night Owl”
Encouraging patrons to reveal their sleeping habits, igniting discussions about daily routines and preferences.
- “Coffee vs. Tea”
Inviting customers to choose their preferred beverage, creating a conversation starter for fellow drink enthusiasts.
- “Pineapple on Pizza vs. No Pineapple on Pizza”
Tapping into the age-old debate about pizza toppings, making patrons feel invested in the outcome while they tip.
- “Kim K or Taylor Swift or Neither” - @lolaymaria
Pick high-profile celebrities and keep it fun! You will notice that most fans can’t resist supporting their favorite star, and for all the non-showbiz peeps, they will want to tip staff in the “neither” jar.
- “Who is more gangster? Rick Ross or Bob Ross” - @imgaryalexander
This is not only funny, but it will most definitely catch the attention of the guests. They will also feel the need to tip and showcase their support towards the celebrity.
Tip jar ideas for themes
Christmas tip jar ideas
- “Tips for a Merry Christmas!”
A simple and classic message reminding patrons that their tips help spread holiday joy.
- “Santa’s Tip Jar: Help Us Stay on the Nice List!”
Encourage customers to contribute to keep your staff off Santa's naughty list!
- “Tipping is a Holiday Tradition!”
Connect tipping to the spirit of giving during the festive season.
- “All I Want for Christmas is Your Tips!”
A fun twist on the classic holiday song that invites patrons to show their appreciation.
- “Help Us Fill the Sleigh with Tips!”
Use a sleigh graphic and let patrons know their contributions will help “fill” the holiday spirit.
- “Tips: The Gift That Keeps on Giving!”
Emphasize that tipping helps provide great service throughout the year.
- “Join Our Christmas Cheer—Tip Here!”
A festive invitation for customers to spread holiday cheer by tipping.
- “Deck the Tips with Boughs of Holly!”
A fun play on the classic carol, encouraging customers to contribute.
- “Frosty the Tip Jar Says, ‘Fill Me Up!’”
A playful reference to Frosty the Snowman, enticing patrons to tip.
- “Jingle All the Way—Tip Your Bartender Today!”
A catchy phrase that connects the fun of the holidays with the act of tipping.
- “Make It a Merry Christmas for Your Servers!”
Reminding patrons that their generosity directly impacts the staff’s holiday spirit.
- “Candy Canes and Tips, Oh My!”
A whimsical message that combines holiday treats with the joy of giving.
- “Tips for a Joyful New Year!”
Encourage customers to think about how their tips contribute to a great start to the new year.
- “Your Tips Help Us Spread Holiday Cheer!”
Connect the act of tipping with the broader spirit of the season.
- “Tip Us and We’ll Keep the Christmas Spirit Flowing!”
Highlight the connection between tips and maintaining a festive atmosphere.
Halloween tip jar ideas
- “Tip or Treat!”
Encourage guests to “tip or treat” for their drinks or food, adding a playful spin on the classic Halloween phrase.
- “Witch’s Brew Fund”
Use a cauldron as your tip jar, and label it as the “Witch’s Brew Fund.” Let customers know their tips will help concoct magical drinks!
- “Give a Little, Scare a Little”
A fun way to remind customers that every tip helps create a spook-tacular experience.
- “Tips for the Ghoul’s Night Out”
Promote a special Halloween-themed night, inviting patrons to tip generously to support the spooky festivities.
- “Boo-tiful Tips Welcome Here!”
Use ghost graphics or decorations around the jar with this catchy phrase to entice customers to contribute.
- “Creepin’ It Real with Your Tips”
A playful way to highlight that tips help keep the good vibes flowing in a fun Halloween atmosphere.
- “Spooky Support for Our Monsters!”
Invite customers to support their favorite “monsters” (bartenders or staff) with their tips, using Halloween-themed decorations.
- “Help Our Pumpkins Get to the Ball”
A nod to the fairy tale, encouraging patrons to tip so your pumpkins (staff) can have a great night.
- “Zombie Survival Fund: Tips Help Us Stay Alive!”
Incorporate some zombie humor to create an entertaining atmosphere while encouraging tipping.
- “Mummy’s Money for Cocktails!”
Use a mummy-wrapped jar and let customers know their contributions help keep the cocktails flowing.
- “Trick or Treat Yourself: Tips for Tasty Treats!”
Connect tipping with rewarding customers with delicious drinks and snacks.
- “Monster Mash Fund”
Celebrate the classic Halloween song by labeling your tip jar with a fun reference to the “Monster Mash” party.
- “Howl at the Tips!”
Use a wolf graphic with this phrase, inviting patrons to “howl” in support of their favorite bartenders.
- “Goblins Need Gold!”
A catchy phrase that encourages patrons to help support the “goblins” (staff) serving them.
- “Potion for a Good Time”
Label your jar as a potion that contributes to a good time, enticing customers to add their “ingredients” (tips).
Bar tip jar ideas
- “Drink Responsibly, Tip Generously!”
A playful reminder that enjoying a drink also means appreciating good service.
- “Tips for Tasty Drinks!”
Highlight that tips help bartenders create delicious cocktails and provide great service.
- “Help Us Keep the Good Vibes Flowing!”
A message that connects tips with maintaining a fun and lively atmosphere.
- “Booze Funds: Tips Help Keep the Party Going!”
A light-hearted way to encourage patrons to contribute to the fun.
- “Cheers to Good Service—Tip Your Bartender!”
A simple yet effective reminder that tipping is part of the bar experience.
- “Tip Jar: Because We Love Your Smiles!”
Emphasizing the connection between good service and customer satisfaction.
- “Your Tips Keep the Shots Coming!”
A fun way to suggest that tips directly contribute to the drinks served.
- “Help Us Raise the Bar!”
A clever play on words that encourages patrons to tip generously to improve the bar experience.
- “Every Tip Counts—Make It Rain!”
A playful invitation for customers to show their appreciation in a big way.
- “Tips for Cocktails and Kindness!”
Connecting the act of tipping with the friendly service patrons receive.
- “Don’t Forget to Tip Your Mixologist!”
Highlighting the skill and artistry of bartenders while reminding customers to show appreciation.
- “Cheers to Your Generosity!”
A toast to customers who contribute, creating a sense of community.
- “Tip Here to Keep the Ice Cold!”
A fun twist that emphasizes the importance of tips in maintaining great service.
- “Your Generosity Fuels Our Creativity!”
Acknowledging that tips help bartenders craft unique and innovative drinks.
- “Be a Part of Our Happy Hour!”
Inviting guests to contribute to the experience and feel like they’re part of the team.
Create a riddle or puzzle for your tip jar
Add an element of fun and challenge to your tip jar by incorporating a riddle or puzzle. This interactive approach not only entertains your customers but also encourages them to leave a tip in exchange for the answer.
You can display the riddle on the tip jar and reveal the answer only after a tip is given, or change the riddle daily to keep customers coming back for more.
- “What has keys but can't open locks?” (A piano)
Inviting guests to guess while enjoying their drinks, turning tipping into a fun brain teaser.
- “The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I?” (Footsteps)
Encouraging customers to ponder this riddle as they enjoy their time, sparking conversations about its cleverness.
- “What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years?” (The letter 'M')
A thought-provoking riddle that challenges patrons while they tip, enhancing the overall experience.
- “I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. What am I?” (An echo)
Adding a layer of mystery to the tip jar, this riddle invites engagement and curiosity.
- “I have branches, but no fruit, trunk, or leaves. What am I?” (A bank)
Creating a connection to the theme of giving and sharing, encouraging tips with a playful twist.
- “What can travel around the world while staying in a corner?” (A stamp)
A clever riddle that prompts patrons to think, making the tipping process entertaining.
- “The more you have of it, the less you see. What is it?” (Darkness)
Inviting customers to reflect on this riddle while enjoying their time, adding to the fun atmosphere.
- “What has a head, a tail, but no body?” (A coin)
Connecting the riddle to the concept of tipping, creating a playful interaction.
- “I’m tall when I’m young, and I’m short when I’m old. What am I?” (A candle)
Encouraging patrons to engage with this riddle while they tip, enhancing the experience.
By turning your tip jar into a riddle or puzzle, you create an interactive and entertaining experience that encourages customers to tip while sparking curiosity and conversation.
Action-oriented tip jar ideas
- “Tips for a Song Request!”
Let customers know that a tip can earn them a song request. This creates an opportunity for interaction and adds to the atmosphere of the bar or restaurant.
- “Tip to Spin the Wheel!”
Create a prize wheel that customers can spin with a tip. The wheel can offer fun prizes like a free drink, discount, or a fun challenge for the staff.
- “Tips for Trivia!”
Encourage patrons to contribute to a trivia pot. They can vote with their tips on what trivia category will be featured for the night.
- “Help Us Pick the Next Special!”
Allow customers to leave tips in jars labeled with different dish or drink options. The item with the most tips becomes the next special, encouraging customers to feel involved in the menu.
- “Tip for a Raffle Ticket!”
Offer a raffle ticket for every tip received. Customers can win prizes like gift cards, merchandise, or exclusive experiences.
- “Your Tip, Your Choice: Drink Challenge!”
Allow customers to tip and then choose a fun challenge for the bartender (like a funny dance or joke). This adds an element of entertainment to the tipping process.
- “Tips for Good Deeds!”
Set up a tip jar where every dollar contributes to a good deed. For example, patrons can vote on local charities to support with the funds collected.
- “Tip to Share a Memory!”
Encourage patrons to leave a tip along with a short story or memory related to the bar. Share these stories on a bulletin board to create a sense of community.
- “Tip Jar for a Game Night!”
Let customers contribute tips to fund a game night, where the funds help buy prizes or snacks for participants. This encourages involvement in the bar’s events.
- “Tips for the Next Round!”
Set up a “pay it forward” tip jar where patrons can contribute to cover the next round for someone else. This fosters a sense of community and goodwill among customers.
- “Tip to Nominate a Bartender of the Month!”
Customers can leave tips to nominate their favorite bartender for special recognition. The bartender with the most nominations can win a prize or feature on a “Wall of Fame.”
- “Your Tip Unlocks a Fun Fact!”
For each tip, guests can learn a fun fact about the bar, the drinks, or local history, creating an interactive and educational experience.
Further reading
Treat your tip jar as a voting station
Encourage friendly debates among your customers by transforming your tip jar into a voting system. Let guests express their opinions while the bartenders enjoy the benefits!
Beer styles
Nothing sparks a lively discussion like a rivalry between beer styles. Pose the big question to your customers and let them cast their votes with their tips.
Pop culture
Are your customers Team Aladdin or Team Lion King? Barbie or Oppenheimer? Get them chatting, and tipping!
Glassware
Dive into another debate in the beer world: which glassware reigns supreme? Snifter? Pilsner glass? Stein? Let the tips reveal the winner!
Crowler vs. growler
Do you prefer a 32-ounce crowler or a 64-ounce growler? Crowlers are perfect for picnics, while growlers serve as memorable keepsakes.
Sports teams
Lakers or Celtics? Blue Devils or Tar Heels? Die-hard fans will be eager to show their loyalty. Make it a spirited showdown and keep it local!
Favorite bartender
Why not let patrons decide who their favorite bartender is through their tips? While the tips may be split, the victor earns bragging rights and a bit of fun competition!
Other unique tipping ideas
Breaking down the barriers to tipping can help ensure your bartenders receive the appreciation they deserve. Here are some innovative ideas to encourage patrons to tip easily and directly:
Venmo tips
Have a customer whose tab is already covered but still wants to leave a tip? Instead of complicating the process with small transactions or requiring a purchase just to add a tip, consider displaying your bartenders’ Venmo codes prominently on tip jars or at the bar. This allows customers to send tips directly to their accounts, making it quick and convenient.
For establishments that practice tip pooling, you can set up a dedicated Venmo account for the bartenders. This way, all tips can be collected and divided fairly among the staff at the end of the shift, ensuring everyone benefits from customer generosity.
Birthday love
Celebrate your bartenders in a special way by creating a birthday tip fund! If a bartender is working on their birthday or close to it, encourage customers to contribute to this fund as a way of showing appreciation.
You can enhance the birthday celebration by tying balloons to the tip jar, displaying the bartender's Venmo code, and even offering small treats like cupcakes to customers who participate in the fun. This not only makes the bartender feel valued but also creates a festive atmosphere that customers will enjoy. It fosters a sense of community and connection between the staff and patrons, making the bar feel like a welcoming and supportive space.
Digital tip jars
Create a digital tip jar on your bar's website or social media platforms. Customers can scan a QR code that links directly to a tipping platform, allowing them to leave a tip from their smartphones. This is especially useful for customers who may not have cash on hand.
Tip jar challenges
Introduce a friendly competition among bartenders where customers can vote with their tips. For example, set up a challenge where each bartender creates a special cocktail. Customers can tip their favorite bartender based on their drink. This encourages engagement and adds an element of fun.
Themed tip jars
Decorate your tip jars according to specific themes or events (e.g., holidays, sports, or local events). This not only makes the jars visually appealing but also encourages patrons to contribute as part of the fun. For example, during the Super Bowl, create a football-themed tip jar and let customers tip their favorite team’s bartender.
“Round it up” option
Encourage customers to round up their bills to the nearest dollar and donate the difference as a tip. This small gesture can significantly increase tips without requiring customers to part with a lot of extra cash.
Loyalty programs
Create a loyalty program that rewards customers for their tips. For example, after a certain number of tips or a set amount contributed, patrons could receive a free drink or discount. This not only incentivizes tipping but also encourages repeat visits.
Bartender highlight of the month
Feature a “Bartender of the Month” and encourage customers to tip generously to support them. Promote this initiative through social media and in-house signage, highlighting the bartender’s specialties and contributions to the bar.
Special occasion celebrations
Celebrate special occasions, like holidays or local festivals, by setting up themed tip jars. For instance, during the holiday season, create a “Holiday Cheer” jar that emphasizes giving and sharing. Customers can feel good about contributing to the festive spirit while supporting the staff.
Live music or event donations
If your bar hosts live music or special events, set up a donation jar for the performing artists and encourage patrons to tip the bartenders as well. This can create a sense of community support and enhance the overall experience.
FAQs
What makes the best tip jar?
“A clear jar is best - we use a small fishbowl type (it's actually a repurposed DumDum lollipop container from my office). Always put starter money in your tip jar - you have to make it really obvious what it is - if you can get some of your friends to make a show of putting money it when people are watching, do that,” says Katie on Reddit
How do you politely ask for tips in a jar?
"It was wonderful to finally meet you! With no tip included, your total for today will be $X. Do you want to include a gratuity?”