Eating out: To tip or not to tip?

From talking to restaurateurs, wait staff and general observation, here are factors to consider the next time you're wondering about that tip. The more "yes" answers, the more likely a tip is expected:

Does a person take your order at your table?

When you pay at the register with a credit card, does the cashier ask if you need extra money back for tips?

Does someone bring your drinks to the table and refill them?

Does someone bring your meal to the table?

Is the food served on re-useable dishes rather than disposable containers?

Does someone return to your table and ask about your experience?

Does someone bus your table?

Here are some clues that you're in a fast-casual restaurant. The more "yes" answers, the more likely it is that a tip is nice but not necessary:

Do you order and pay for your meal at the counter when you first walk in?

Is there a self-service drink dispenser where you fill (or refill) your own drinks?

Is there a "tip jar" at the front counter?

Is the food served in disposable dishes or wrappers?

Are you expected to bus your table when you're finished?

— Valerie Phillips