Leitaos Tipping Policy

At Leitao, we are committed to creating a welcoming environment not only for our guests but also for our dedicated staff. To ensure financial stability and fairness for our team, we have made the decision to eliminate gratuities and instead implement an 20% service charge* on all bills. This change allows us to provide our staff with reliable salaries, along with benefits such as paid sick days and vacation time—essential elements that the traditional tipping system cannot consistently support. By removing the unpredictability of tips, our employees can focus on delivering exceptional food, service, and hospitality, knowing they have the financial security to care for themselves and their families.

This new structure promotes equality for all members of our staff, from those who create your meals to those who serve them. At Leitao, we believe that every role contributes to the unforgettable experience we offer, and we are proud to build an environment where everyone’s contributions are valued equally. Thank you for embracing this positive change and for continuing to be a part of the Leitao family.

But I want to tip!

We kindly ask that you do not leave additional tips. Our receipts and handled devises will no longer ask for tips. If you’d like to express your appreciation for our team’s efforts, simply returning to dine with us is the greatest compliment.

Whats wrong with tips?

The current wage for tipped food service employees is less than minimum wage. Currently tipped employees in NYC earn a $10.65 cash wage and a $5.35 tip credit. That just isn’t enough to live on in NYC and Leitao insists on paying everyone a livable wage. Staff that rely on tips are also much more vulnerable to the ebbs and flows of business in the service industry. With tips hourly pay rates can dip due to weather, holidays, time of year and the number of staff working at any given time. The ownership of Leitao has made the tough decision to take on the responsibility of providing consistent pay rain or shine.

*Service charges do not go directly to staff members. Instead this fee is used to support Leitao in creating a supportive environment and allowing us to maintain superior dinning experience with high quality products.