To tip or not to tip, that is the question...
I found myself in an interesting predicament yesterday. Down the street from my apartment is an authentic Japanese sushi restaurant and I decided to go there for some take out. I went in and ordered, and while I waited for the order, the hostess gives me a complimentary bowl of miso soup, which was delicious. They were very gracious, and when I paid my tab I tipped them well for the soup. The hostess seemed stunned, but nevertheless she thanked me and I left.
Now what's so odd about this? Well, I remembered afterward that in Japan, it's actually considered an insult to tip for anything. I don't know how long these people had been in Canada, but I could tell from their broken English that they probably were not born here. I wonder if they really appreciated the tip or if I inadvertently insulted them. I know this wouldn't have been the first time that this happened in their restaurant, but I'd hate to think that I continued the trend.
Oh well, the sushi was still delicious (6 California rolls and 9 random pieces of sushi with a small side salad). I know I'll be going there again. :)
-Dan Raccoon
Now what's so odd about this? Well, I remembered afterward that in Japan, it's actually considered an insult to tip for anything. I don't know how long these people had been in Canada, but I could tell from their broken English that they probably were not born here. I wonder if they really appreciated the tip or if I inadvertently insulted them. I know this wouldn't have been the first time that this happened in their restaurant, but I'd hate to think that I continued the trend.
Oh well, the sushi was still delicious (6 California rolls and 9 random pieces of sushi with a small side salad). I know I'll be going there again. :)
-Dan Raccoon