Automatic gratuity is controversial among consumers. The practice is common for parties of six guests and above, but now several customers are noting that it’s happening outside of those circumstances, too.
For example, one solo diner said she noticed an 18% charge for automatic gratuity on her receipt. Another Olive Garden customer claimed the restaurant charged her an extra $16.78 for her to-go meal, and a third said a bar in Boston added 20% after she ordered two drinks.
