Vicki Parmelee, the owner of Jumby Bay Island Grill in Jupiter, Florida, has shared her thoughts on the evolving dynamics of tipping practices in the restaurant industry. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Parmelee emphasized that tips should be earned rather than expected, highlighting a growing concern among both employees and customers.
She described a common scenario that many customers find uncomfortable, involving the expectation that tipping is a mandatory part of the dining experience. Parme, who has been in the restaurant business for over a decade, said that this pressure often leads to awkward situations where diners feel forced to part with money they may not be willing to spend.
The conversation around tipping has gained traction in recent years, as more people are becoming aware of the economic pressures on service workers. Parmelee’s comments add to the ongoing debate about whether tipping should be considered a form of compensation or a discretionary gesture, and whether it should be left entirely to the customer’s discretion.