W. A. Frost and Company

Original review:
I have been here several times and typically have a wonderful experience. However, the business has started adding a 21% gratuity to all bills, with verbiage on the menu indicating that it is for the benefit of the staff, and that an additional tip was not expected. Fine with me! When signing the check, I wrote that the tip was “included” (I thought it was). As I was leaving, our waiter chased after us and informed me that the extra went “into the coffers” of the owners, rather than to the staff. So, if I wanted to tip him for his (great) service, I’d have to add an extra tip.

I generally am happy to tip, but 30-40% is too much for an already quite expensive meal. The lack of clarity left quite a bad taste in my mouth. It feels Iike someone is being dishonest here. I won’t be back until they get this sorted out.

Edit: I was contacted today by the general manager, who clarified that the 21% is not a gratuity, but rather a hospitality fee that helps the restaurant pay a living wage to all front- and back-of-house staff. An additional tip specifically for the server is accepted but NOT expected. I fully support this effort to improve equity across restaurant staff. Culture change is hard, especially around tipping, and I think my experience may have been a bump along that road.

Best patio in town, good food and service, despite the pandemic.