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Flag of Canada How much to tip a waiter in Canada?

CanadaExpectedCanadian dollar (CAD)
In Canada, tipping a waiter is Expected15-20%. Pay in Canadian dollar (CAD). This is usually lighter than the US norm of about 18%.
In CanadaExpected
Restaurant15-20%
Pay inCanadian dollar (CAD)
US comparison18%

Canadian tipping closely mirrors the US, with 15-20% the norm at restaurants.

Tipping a waiter in Canada: the local custom

When dining out in Canada, the guidance for restaurant service is: 15-20%. Tip in cash in Canadian dollar (CAD) where you can, and always check whether a service charge has already been added before you decide.

Example: a C$50.00 bill in Canada

If you decide to tip around the local level, use the calculator below in CAD. Remember to check the bill first — a service charge may already be included, in which case an extra tip is optional.

Tip calculator (CAD)

C$0.00Tip
C$0.00Total
C$0.00Per person
Effective rate: 18%

Canada vs the US

In the US, a waiter is typically tipped 18%. In Canada, the custom is 15-20% — so if you are visiting from the US, expect to tip less than you would at home. For the full picture across every venue, see the Canada tipping guide.

More on this

Reviewed 2026-08-10. Customs vary by venue and region; check the bill before tipping.