Millions of football fans are currently in US cities hosting the 2026 World Cup. In New York, bars and restaurants are operating at full capacity from morning matches to celebrations extending late into the night. Despite constant ringing cash registers and non-stop beer flow, the tips staff receive are far lower than expected. This creates a financial shortfall for many service workers.

Louise Daggett, an employee at McCarthy’s Pub NYC on West 46th Street, finds serving international guests both interesting and confusing. "Everyone is very nice, loud, and friendly," she stated. "But I find it puzzling when many people do not leave tips as Americans do." Many staff feel disheartened when large groups order extensively and stay for hours but leave small tips. Daggett recounted instances where bills neared 700 USD, yet customers refused to tip. She often has to explain that tipping is a local custom and important for staff income. "Most guests are not rude; they simply do not know the rules here," Daggett commented.

Louise Daggett, a service employee in New York. Photo: NYP

This disparity stems from different cultural norms. In many European and Asian countries, tipping is minimal or non-existent. Restaurants in these regions typically pay staff fixed salaries, and service charges are often included directly in the price of the food. Consequently, international guests assume they have paid in full when settling their bills.

At Hurley’s Saloon, a few blocks from 9th Avenue, co-owner Anne Calimano noted the World Cup transformed a quiet period into a festive one. She attributes the tip income shortfall to cultural differences, not stinginess. Calimano’s staff are learning to adapt. "They know they will not receive a 20% tip," she said. "However, they are still fine because the establishment is very busy, so overall income is still secured." To protect employees, after 10 days the World Cup began, many restaurants in Kansas City, Atlanta, and Philadelphia started automatically adding a 20% service charge to bills. This move received support from service industry associations and restaurant operators.

At Garvey’s Irish Pub on West 41st Street, business is also peaking. "It is always crowded," said bartender Cathal Reynolds. "Even our mornings are now busier than evenings used to be. The Scots have almost taken over the city." Reynolds understands that tourists have spent a large amount of money to come to the US for football. Nevertheless, he hopes international guests will adapt to local customs. "If you come here, you should participate in and experience the local culture, including the tipping culture, so you will have truly complete memories," he said.

By Tam Anh (according to New York Post)