There’s been some talk of this around the internets lately, and I guess now would be a good time to weigh in.

As a line cook, I’m all for it.  I like money, but on a more symbolic level, getting some tip money from the front of house shows that they are appreciating what we do back there.  I think that some tip share (or buying us beers after work) helps build teamwork between the front and back of house.

Although, conversely, I’ve been told by a server ‘You chose to be a cook, I chose to be a server.  You shouldn’t get any of my money.’  Fair enough, server.  Needless to say, I didn’t like that server after that, and I definitely didn’t do them any favors after that.

I can understand why that server doesn’t want to share with the kitchen.  That’s fine, but one thing that has always bothered me is that it’s fairly common practice for servers to tip out bartenders.  Bartenders generally make more than servers, and are compensated thusly for their knowledge of beer, wine and cocktails.  I see no reason that cooks shouldn’t be tipped like bartenders are.

I feel like everyone who had a hand in providing some service to the guest should share in the tip.  The drinks from the bartender, the food from the kitchen and the table service from the server all create the atmosphere for the diner and are (at least should be) considered when tipping, and I think that a percentage of that tip should be shared with all.