Tipping in Montreal Restaurants: A Complete Etiquette Guide
Dining out in Montreal is one of the great pleasures of visiting or living in the city. But for visitors, and even for some newcomers, the bill can raise questions. How much should you tip? Is the tip included? Why are there two taxes? And how do you split the bill with friends?
This guide explains tipping and restaurant etiquette in Montreal so you can enjoy your meal with confidence.
Is tipping expected in Montreal?
Yes. Tipping is an important part of restaurant culture in Montreal and across Quebec. In most sit-down restaurants, servers rely on tips as a significant part of their income, and a tip is expected for table service.
Unlike in some European countries, the service charge is generally not included in the price shown on the menu. You add the tip yourself when you pay.
How much should you tip?
In Montreal, tips at sit-down restaurants are commonly in the range of 15% to 20% for good service. Many diners consider 15% a standard tip, with 18% or 20% for very good service, especially at more upscale restaurants.
- Table service restaurants: 15% to 20% is customary.
- Bars: a tip on each drink or on the total tab is common.
- Cafés and counter service: tipping is optional; many people leave a small amount or round up.
- Takeout: tipping is not expected, though some customers leave a small tip.
- Delivery: a tip for the delivery person is customary.
Understanding taxes on the bill
When you look at a restaurant bill in Montreal, you will usually see two taxes added to the subtotal:
- GST (TPS in French): the federal goods and services tax.
- QST (TVQ in French): the Quebec sales tax.
Menu prices are generally shown before taxes, so expect the total to be higher than the sum of the menu items. More information about the GST is available on Canada.ca, and about the QST on Québec.ca.
Tip before or after taxes?
Many diners calculate the tip on the amount before taxes, while others calculate it on the total. Both practices are common. Payment terminals often suggest percentages calculated on the total, so feel free to enter a custom amount if you prefer.
Paying by card
Most restaurants in Montreal accept debit and credit cards. The server will usually bring a portable payment terminal to your table. The terminal typically asks you to:
- Choose your language
- Select a tip percentage or enter a custom amount
- Confirm the total and pay
Take a moment to check the amount before confirming. Some terminals suggest tip percentages that are higher than what you intended.
Splitting the bill
Montreal restaurants are generally comfortable with splitting the bill, especially for small groups. Let the server know at the start of the meal, or when you order, that you would like separate bills. For larger groups, some restaurants prefer a single bill or may add an automatic gratuity. This policy is usually indicated on the menu or mentioned when booking.
Other dining etiquette in Montreal
Greeting staff
Montreal is a bilingual city. A simple “Bonjour” or “Bonjour, hi” when you enter is appreciated. Staff will happily switch to English if needed.
Reservations
Popular restaurants, especially on weekends, fill up quickly. Booking ahead is wise, particularly for dinner on Friday and Saturday. If your plans change, cancel your reservation so the table can be given to someone else.
Pace of the meal
In many Montreal restaurants, the meal is meant to be enjoyed slowly. The server may not bring the bill until you ask for it. Simply say “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” or “Could we have the bill, please?”
BYOB restaurants
At “apportez votre vin” restaurants, you bring your own wine. The server still opens and pours it, so tipping normally is appreciated. Read our guide to BYOB restaurants in Montreal for more.
Dietary needs
Let your server know about allergies or dietary restrictions when you order. If you eat gluten-free, see our guide to gluten-free restaurants in Montreal.
Tips for visitors
- Carry a card for payment, as cash is not always necessary
- Keep a little cash for small tips at cafés or coat checks
- Ask the server about the dish of the day or the table d’hôte, a set menu that is popular in Quebec
- Try local specialties; our article on the best food in Montreal lists the dishes you have to try
FAQ: tipping in Montreal restaurants
How much do you tip in a Montreal restaurant?
For table service, a tip of 15% to 20% is customary, depending on the quality of the service and the type of restaurant.
Is the tip included in the bill in Montreal?
Generally no. The tip is usually added by the customer at the time of payment. Some restaurants may include an automatic gratuity for large groups, so check the bill.
What are the two taxes on a Montreal restaurant bill?
They are the GST (TPS), the federal tax, and the QST (TVQ), the Quebec sales tax.
Do you tip at cafés and counters in Montreal?
Tipping at counter-service cafés and fast food spots is optional. Many people leave a small amount or round up when they are satisfied.
Can I pay with a credit card in Montreal restaurants?
Yes, most restaurants accept credit and debit cards, usually through a portable terminal brought to your table.