You give out tips because you think it's expected...
at that point it is no longer a TIP... Tips should work based on the quality of service that you have gotten..
if its standard affair or as you put it in your original post "satisfactory" what's the reason for giving extra?
you got what you paid for... If the BBBJ was "dig your nails into the table" good, or you got MSOG at an AMP,
or Greek, or a 2for1 special.. then sure by ALL means throw them something extra...
If I work at a restaurant where 15% gratuity is automatically charged I would do the bear minimum to keep
my job, as opposed to a restaurant where it isn't automatic I would work my ass off for as many tips as I could.
Maybe you aren't too sensitive, maybe im overly insensitive.. but in my experience the tipping culture in the united states
is that automatic... In other areas of the world hospitality and high levels of service are a staple to bringing
customers BACK to an establishment, not trying to get more of their money while they are there.