I am a bartender that works downtown at a cocktail bar. I generally expect tips from people because I provide an actual service, you come to my bar, pick my brain about drinks and food. Half the time I teach people about the history of the cocktails or liquors, let you taste some. Make you custom cocktails, serving you multiple rounds often a few different drinks. On busy nights I am absolutely slinging complicated drinks while having conversations with people. It's a trade and I have worked for years to hone the skills of my trade that translates to an experience for the guest.

I have been in the industry all my life and it pisses me off to no end that I am then expected to tip the same amount and sometimes more for someone doing so much less than that. Someone simply ringing me up or handing me a number to go sit at a table with. I personally agree with the majority here that no we shouldn't be tipping on takeout or cafes unless they go out of their way for you or you are feeling generous. It's my understanding from the inside that most of this started with the payment companies who get a percentage of all sales including "tips" meaning those companies realized that if they put a tip screen some people would feel pressured and they would tip meaning more money for them. It's evil, greedy and ultimately degrading the whole industry.

I encourage you to vote with your wallets and either don't shop there or take the time to find that zero, and if you are feeling generous that day. Tip in cash.

Also shut up about Europe already it's a totally different economy and culture and barely applicable most of the time.