Average service earns 15%, amazing service is going to net the server 25%. If the service is beyond horrible and they didn't try to correct it after being clued in, all they are going to get is 5% and a word with their manager on my way out. I've worked wait staff jobs before, and all it takes to make good tips is a pleasant demeanor and a willingness to fix any mistakes that might be made. When I worked at an upscale restaurant in Orlando, I only made $3 per hour on the clock, but almost always went home with $250+ in tips, and that was after tipping out my busser and bar back. It was common to make twice that on a Friday or Saturday night. Cheese and crackers! Why the hell did I leave Orlando? LOL