Gastreating

Gastreating is a term that describes the act of a restaurant, bar, or other food service establishment intentionally manipulating or withholding information from customers to make them feel more inclined to leave a tip, or to increase the amount of a tip. This can manifest in several ways. One common tactic is to pre-fill tip lines on receipts with suggested amounts, often including higher percentages, which can influence customers who might otherwise calculate a different tip based on service. Another method involves subtly de-emphasizing the option of not leaving a tip or presenting it in a way that makes it seem less acceptable.

Some establishments might train their staff to use persuasive language that encourages tipping, even when the service provided was mediocre. The intent behind gastreating is to maximize the gratuity received by staff, but it can be viewed negatively by customers who feel pressured or deceived. Critics argue that tipping should be a voluntary expression of appreciation for good service, and that manipulative tactics undermine this principle. While not illegal in most jurisdictions, gastreating raises ethical questions about transparency and customer autonomy in the dining experience. The debate often centers on the balance between ensuring fair compensation for service workers and respecting customer choice.