How to Tip in Germany: State the Rounded Total Directly
German menu prices already include 19% VAT and fair staff wages, so tipping (Trinkgeld) is a polite bonus of 5% to 10% for good table service—never leave coins lying on an empty table when walking out. Instead, when the server tells you the bill (e.g., "Das macht €36,40"), tell them the total amount you want to pay before handing over cash or tapping your card: say "Vierzig Euro, bitte" (€40) or "Stimmt so" ("Keep the change").
Ordering Water & Sharing Brauhaus Tables
- Sparkling by Default: Asking for "water" in Germany brings carbonated mineral water (Sprudelwasser / mit Kohlensäure, €3.50–€6.50 per bottle). Ask specifically for "Stilles Wasser" if you want non-carbonated bottled water.
- Sharing Long Wooden Tables (Stammtisch): In beer halls and beer gardens, it is completely normal to ask "Ist hier noch frei?" ("Is this seat free?") and share a long table with locals—just avoid tables marked with a carved Stammtisch sign reserved for regulars.