A server shares the “new level of pettiness” he unlocked after a group of teenagers tipped him just five percent on a $100 bill.
In a video with over 1.5 million views, TikToker Gabriel Boyd (@gabrielboyd) holds up a Geek Bar vape pen. He shakes it tauntingly.
On-screen text reads, “To the group of 16-year-olds at my table tn that tipped 5% on a $100 bill, you left your geek pen and a little keychain with your parents’ [number] on it.”
Did the server get revenge for the low tip?
The text continues, “Called your parents. Have fun being grounded. I hope the $15 was worth it.”
Geek Bars are a nicotine e-cigarette, which requires buyers to be 21 years old with a valid ID to purchase, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The 16-year-olds likely jumped through hoops to buy the vape illegally.
The server writes in the caption, “A new level of pettiness unlocked.”
Boyd quickly clarifies in a comment that he didn’t actually call the customer’s parents.
“Please understand this is satire, y’all! I had the chance to call but didn’t,” he writes. “I put her pen in the lost and found if she needed it. Just thought it would be a funny TikTok idea.”
Despite the admission, viewers debate a completely different topic in the comments.
Viewers debate tipping culture instead
Viewers split on whether Boyd had the right to be frustrated with the low tip in the comments. In the United States, an 18% to 20% tip is considered the standard for good service, according to Bankrate. American servers often earn below the minimum wage, as most of their income comes solely from tips.
“Tipping 5% is INSANE. Even if the bill is small, I always tip 20%!” one commenter writes.
“Even when I didn’t have a job, I always tipped like 25%. I think it’s just the right thing to do,” another says.
“If they had enough to pay for a 100 dollar bill they can tip more,” a third adds.
However, other commenters argue that tipping is “completely optional” and shouldn’t be expected. Some say tipping culture has gotten out of control.
“The way they still tipped you, which is a kind gesture no matter how much it is,” one says.
“Just proving that tipping culture is out of control and giving more people reason not to tip,” another writes.
“Tipping should be pocket change no matter how much you spent,” a third insists.
@gabrielboyd A new level of pettiness unlocked. . . #revenge #geek #fyp #viral #teenager #serving #work #petty #pettytiktok ♬ Spaz – Mr. 2-17 & DRIPPY PRODUCTIONS
The Mary Sue reached out to Boyd for further comment.
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