I grew up in Mom's restraunt. Mom paid above union wage and was picketed by union for doing it. Small town where we lived and word got out among some that they could go into her place and complain about the food, Mom would tear up the check. There were always half a dozen dirt truckers in the back booth sipping coffee slow and waiting for a call to work. Mom carried these guys on the cuff when times were bad or work was slow. Some one stiffing mom only worked once. Hamp, Eagle King, Andy or one of the others would get up and meet the former deadbeat at the door. These were Tenessee boys and they never let low lifes bother Mom or the waitresses. No one, I mean no one, stiffed Mom or the waitress more than once and ever got back in again. Rural area, 1950 era, nearest cop was Highway Patrol. New Sheriffs Deputy came in once, ordered and announced when he got up, that he would be eating there in the future and was going to get a special deal on his meals, FREE. Six truckers went outside with him, took away his side arm and drove him 30 miles to Sherrif's office to complain. Never saw the man again but the Sherrif came out next day to apoligise to Mom. Mom told him coffee was free for any Law enforcement that came by. Coffee not the menu.
My take after all these year is tips are 10% cash so IRS can't track a waitress, more for excellent service. I bribe a witress whenever there is a man in uniform, or someone in a military reunion cap to bring me thier bill and keep quiet. I have business card printed saying thank you, and remember to tip the waitress. Something Dad taught me when I got out of the Army.
blindhari