After a group of teenagers ventured out to a restaurant for their first independent dining experience, they found themselves unsure about how to properly calculate a tip for their waiter. Recognizing their mistake, they returned to the establishment several days later with a heartfelt apology.
In Los Angeles, a waiter shared a touching story after feeling disappointed by a low tip from a group he had served, never expecting to see them again. The incident occurred when four 13-year-old girls dined at the restaurant without adults for the first time, brimming with excitement about the experience.
Despite thanking the waiter for his excellent service, the girls left a tip of only $3.28, leaving the waiter disheartened. Venting his frustrations online, the waiter, known as Seminole, expressed his dismay on Imgur.
To his surprise, the girls returned to the restaurant a week and a half later with a handwritten apology and additional money for the tip. In their letter, the girls explained that they had misunderstood tipping etiquette and felt terrible about their oversight.
Moved by the girls’ sincerity and determination to make amends, the waiter, who had never experienced such a gesture in his years of service, expressed his gratitude. He commended the girls for their effort to rectify the situation and wished them a fantastic homecoming celebration.
The heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the impact of kindness and the importance of learning from mistakes, even at a young age.
The bill totaled nearly $100, making the tip less than four percent.
“We were unaware of how small this truly was, and left clueless of what we had left you for all your hard work,” the letter explained.
“Afterward, we realized our mistake and felt terrible. We knew we had to make it right. So, in this envelope, you will find the correct 18% tip plus extra for simply being amazing. We appreciate your help and patience, and thank you for making our night fun. Thank you!”
The waiter found an additional $18 and change in the envelope, surpassing the customary tip.
“I’ve been in this industry for a long time, and nothing like this has ever happened to me or anyone,” the waiter shared. “I’m not sure how you learned about tipping, but I truly appreciate the effort and kindness. I hope your Homecoming was fantastic!”
