No, you generally do not tip on Topgolf game play itself.
Planning a fun outing to Topgolf? The question of whether you tip on Topgolf game play might cross your mind. It’s understandable to wonder about the tipping etiquette, especially since it’s a service-oriented place.
Many people focus their tips on the food and drinks servers bring to your bay. These staff members work hard to make sure your experience is enjoyable, so tipping them for great service is customary. While tipping is not mandatory on Topgolf gameplay alone, think about showing your gratitude to the staff who served you.
Do You Tip on Topgolf Game Play?
Let’s talk about something that can be a little confusing: tipping at Topgolf. You’re there to have a blast hitting golf balls, maybe enjoying some tasty food and drinks, but then that little voice in your head asks, “Wait, do I need to tip for the game itself?” It’s a good question, and the answer isn’t always a simple yes or no. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect and how to handle the tipping situation at Topgolf.
Understanding the Topgolf Experience
First, let’s understand what you are paying for at Topgolf. When you go to Topgolf, you’re paying for a bay, which is basically your area to play. You typically pay by the hour, and the price depends on the day and time of day. This payment covers the use of the bay, the golf balls, and the technology that keeps track of your scores. Think of it like renting a lane at a bowling alley or a table at a pool hall. The core service is providing the space and equipment for you to play. This core game play part does not generally require a tip.
However, the Topgolf experience isn’t just about the game. It’s a social experience with food, drinks, and service involved. That’s where things get a bit more interesting when it comes to tipping.
The Role of Topgolf Servers
Topgolf venues usually have servers assigned to each bay. These people aren’t just bringing food and drinks; they’re key to making your experience smooth and enjoyable. They take your orders, check on you throughout your play time, and handle any requests you have. They’re basically your personal wait staff for the duration of your bay rental. Tipping these servers is where the standard tipping rules for restaurants apply. When you order food or drinks from your server, you should plan to tip them just like you would at any other restaurant or bar.
Tipping for Food and Drinks
When it comes to food and beverages, a good rule of thumb is to tip between 15% and 20% of your total bill. If the service was excellent, feel free to go a little higher. If the service was less than stellar, you may consider tipping a bit less. This is where standard restaurant etiquette applies. If you ordered a lot of complicated drinks and the server was patient and attentive, that deserves a generous tip. Think of it like this: if you were at a restaurant with the same level of service, would you leave a tip? If the answer is yes, then you should also tip at Topgolf.
What if You Don’t Order Food or Drinks?
Some people go to Topgolf just for the game, without ordering anything extra. In that case, there is no expectation to tip your server, because they did not provide a service that warrants it. You’ve essentially just rented the bay for the game. If you do ask your server to help you with setting up your game or if they check up on you, a very small tip is a kind gesture, especially if they went out of their way to help you. Even a few dollars can show your appreciation, especially if they offered great service despite you not ordering.
Situations Where Tipping is Common
Beyond the basics, there are specific scenarios at Topgolf where tipping is definitely a good idea:
- Large Groups: If you’re with a big group, the server has to work harder. They have more orders to take, more people to check on, and more overall to manage. Tipping 18-20% in these situations is much appreciated.
- Special Requests: Did your server quickly get extra towels, bring out a charger for your phone, or fulfill a special request? These efforts deserve a little extra gratuity.
- Exceptional Service: If your server is really attentive, friendly, and makes your experience much better, feel free to tip them a little more to show how thankful you are.
How Much to Tip: A Quick Guide
Here’s a simple table to help you remember when and how much to tip:
| Scenario | Tipping Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Ordering Food and Drinks | 15-20% of the food and drink bill. |
| No Food or Drinks Ordered, but helpful service | A small token, such as $2-5, if the server offered some help, is a nice gesture. |
| Large Group | 18-20% of the food and drink bill. |
| Exceptional Service | 20% or more of the food and drink bill, or an extra cash tip on top. |
Understanding Different Tipping Cultures
It’s also helpful to remember that tipping culture is not the same everywhere. In the USA, tipping is almost always expected for service workers. If you are visiting from a country where tipping isn’t common, this can be a bit different. However, when in the USA, try to follow the usual tipping customs. This shows respect for the servers who rely on tips for a significant portion of their income.
The Nuances of Tipping
There are some less obvious things to keep in mind about tipping at Topgolf. For example:
- Automatic Gratuity: Sometimes, particularly for larger groups, Topgolf might automatically add a gratuity to your bill. Double-check your bill before you add an extra tip. If gratuity was already included, you don’t need to add more, unless you feel the service went above and beyond.
- Credit Card vs. Cash: You can tip with your credit card when you pay your bill, or you can tip with cash. Both are accepted, so you can choose what is most comfortable for you. Some people prefer cash because they know the server gets it right away, while others prefer credit since it’s easier.
- Splitting the Bill: If you are with a group, splitting the bill and the tips can make things more straightforward. Everyone can contribute to the food and beverage costs, and each person can also contribute to the tip. Be sure to make the calculations right to avoid under tipping.
Tipping for Other Staff?
You might also wonder about other staff at Topgolf. While you will mostly interact with your bay server, there are other people who work hard to make your visit good. However, it’s not typical to tip other staff like the people working at the front desk, or the bay attendants, or the people who bring you your clubs. Focus the gratuities on your main server who provides you with table service, especially if you are ordering food and beverages. These types of employees do not generally expect tips in the USA.
Making Tipping Easier
Here are some tips to make tipping at Topgolf as stress-free as possible:
- Plan Ahead: If you know you’ll be ordering food and drinks, bring some extra cash or check your budget to be prepared for tipping.
- Track Your Spending: Keep an eye on what you’re ordering, so you can calculate the tip more easily.
- Ask Your Server: If you have any doubt, don’t be shy to ask your server if there is any automatic gratuity added to your bill. They’ll be happy to clarify.
- Use the App: Most Topgolf locations have their app that allows you to order and pay for your orders on your phone. Sometimes you have a chance to add the tips on the app as well.
Tipping: It’s a Part of the Experience
While tipping on game play alone isn’t common, tipping for the service you receive is. It’s a customary way to show appreciation for those who help make your time at Topgolf more enjoyable. It’s part of the overall social experience. It’s also an important way to support the people who are working to serve you. When you keep these tips and insights in mind, you will be ready to have a great time at Topgolf while knowing exactly what’s expected in terms of gratuities.
To summarize, tipping at Topgolf mainly comes into play when you are being served. Plan to tip your server if they are bringing you food and drinks. Think about the service that you are receiving and tip accordingly, just as you would in any restaurant.
Pro Tip with #TopGolf Director of Instruction Jesse Hughes & Chelsea Pezzola
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, tipping at Topgolf is discretionary. While you must tip servers for food and drinks, tipping for the game itself is not customary. Staff appreciate generosity, but it’s not a mandatory practice.
So, do you tip on topgolf game play? The answer is generally no. You are only required to tip for the services you receive.
