>>>But then you're expected to add about 15% for the tip. Tip on $2 wine isn't worth waiter's walking.
>>>
>>>IOW, it's not that they're making profit on the price difference, they're also underpaying their staff, and can do so because tips are institutionalized.
>>
>>Not here. It isn't customary to pay tips. A very few restaurants add a certain percentage for the "service" category.
>
>So you pay no matter the kind of service you had?
>
>What if the service was awful?

There is/was (I have not checked recently) a Spanish restaurant advertising on the local classical radio station. Great marketing so we had to go! The owner/chef was a true con artist, from Spain. Our son pointed out, “An 18% gratuity will be added to all bills”! As we had driven 25 miles to enjoy Paella, etc., we decided to stay.

The service was atrocious and the food was worst! We paid our bill, complained to the owner and left. The owner could care less. We will not return.

A local Cuban restaurant changes an 18% gratuity for parties of six or more. The food is good but expensive!

Where else can you go but to a restaurant and be insulted, poisoned, and expected to pay at least a 15% gratuity? :)