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Pineapple Pete tax/service
#39034
02/10/2015 08:50 AM
02/10/2015 08:50 AM
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 993 Pittsburgh PA
plequerre
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Posts: 993
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We had dinner at Pineapple Pete Sunday night and as usual, food was excellent and reasonably priced. Try their Lobster Thermidor if you haven't had it yet. It's awesome and $40 is a very reasonable price for a 1 1/2 pounder animal.
I wanted to give everyone a heads up as I didn't remember how they deal with service there. The check came with a "Tax 15%" line. Knowing that tax in SXM is not 15%, I asked our waitress if this was a tax or "service", she said it was for service which is shared between all waiting staff. She was very honest about it and didn't try to mislead us, but I asked another waiter and he gave me the same answer. Our waitress was so nice, I gave her a extra tip which she told me, will be for her only, not shared with her colleagues. So bottom line is, Pineapple Pete charges a 15% service fee, so there's no need to tip the personnel, unless you're very pleased with the service and want to show your special appreciation.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: plequerre]
#39035
02/10/2015 09:06 AM
02/10/2015 09:06 AM
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,089 Massachusetts
boucharda
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I think the point of the recent thread on the same subject was that it should NOT be listed as a tax but be listed as a service charge or, at least, noted on the menu.
Yes, it is very up front when they confirm the actual purpose of the extra charge but the issue is with those who just add a tip routinely to a number on a bill. Those vacationers new to the Island and those who do not read this forum would have no reason to ask...
Last edited by boucharda; 02/10/2015 09:07 AM.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: plequerre]
#39037
02/10/2015 09:34 AM
02/10/2015 09:34 AM
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,089 Massachusetts
boucharda
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everyone going to SXM should join this Forum anyway <wink>. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> Agreed!
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: lcote]
#39039
02/10/2015 09:48 AM
02/10/2015 09:48 AM
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Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,089 Massachusetts
boucharda
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It is STILL for service. Call it what it is. I don't think anyone here feels differently...
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMWendell]
#39044
02/10/2015 11:34 AM
02/10/2015 11:34 AM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,654 Brookfield, CT.
pat
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SXMWendell said: I also feel that it is a rip-off. But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business. I also feel that an additional payment to a waitperson only perpetuates the life of a not so good business practice establishment. It reenforces to the owner that what they do is ok. I feel the if the waitperson is "under paid" should look elsewhere for employment. And a business that treats the waitpersons ( and clients) badly should have a short life. Then another business could take it's place which hopefully has better business practices.
SXM??? Wendell Couldn't be more in agreement with you on this, Wendell. I resent the fact I'm forced to play the 'tip game' and made two decisions quite a while back. 1. Not asking what the additional percentage is but if it's there on the check I'm assuming it's a tip. 2. Not playing the sympathy game either. We tip and tip generously at that but not tipping double and it doesn't matter how cute or friendly or whatever the server may be.
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMWendell]
#39046
02/10/2015 11:48 AM
02/10/2015 11:48 AM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,654 Brookfield, CT.
pat
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Nope!!
Now if you were talking about one of those tall blond Dutchmen with the huge smile and the throaty deep voice......perhaps I could be persuaded! NOT!! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/jester.gif" alt="" />
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMWendell]
#39047
02/10/2015 12:07 PM
02/10/2015 12:07 PM
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 18,891 Auburn, WA
SXMScubaman
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SXMWendell said: I also feel that it is a rip-off. But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business. I also feel that an additional payment to a waitperson only perpetuates the life of a not so good business practice establishment. It reenforces to the owner that what they do is ok. I feel the if the waitperson is "under paid" should look elsewhere for employment. And a business that treats the waitpersons ( and clients) badly should have a short life. Then another business could take it's place which hopefully has better business practices.
SXM??? Wendell <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" />
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMWendell]
#39048
02/10/2015 12:08 PM
02/10/2015 12:08 PM
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Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 13,436 Peaceful Eastern North Carolin...
GaKaye
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Peaceful Eastern North Carolin...
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SXMWendell said: But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business.
I couldn't figure out how to say this without sounding callous and uncaring. You expressed it perfectly.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: plequerre]
#39050
02/10/2015 05:58 PM
02/10/2015 05:58 PM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,564 Ohio
ruralcarrier
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Ohio
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That is how we handle it at PP also. We usually have a larger group, service is good and a few more $$ is added to the included 15%.
PP is one place that can handle a larger group and do it well.
They have been adding the 15% for some time now and it is good to know the servers were upfront about it. You will not always get that at many places.
J.D.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: moxie]
#39053
02/10/2015 08:58 PM
02/10/2015 08:58 PM
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Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 18,891 Auburn, WA
SXMScubaman
Traveler
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Posts: 18,891
Auburn, WA
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moxie said: By a coincidence I spoke to the owner & a manager to day who appeared not to be aware of this practice and sounded pretty upset and said that they would be speaking to the staff involved. Also spoke to someone who said that the staff were very well paid at these two places so lets see what happens. Which establishment as various ones have been mentioned?
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: GaKaye]
#39054
02/10/2015 09:11 PM
02/10/2015 09:11 PM
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Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,597 Sint Maarten
transplantsxm
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Sint Maarten
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GaKaye said:SXMWendell said: But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business.
I couldn't figure out how to say this without sounding callous and uncaring. You expressed it perfectly. The French side waiters have a decent livable minimum wage the Dutch side does not. If I am up to date I think the minimum wage is NAf 7.65 or $4.29 an hour. Want to try to live on $8900 a year on Dutch Sint Maarten?
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: transplantsxm]
#39055
02/10/2015 09:29 PM
02/10/2015 09:29 PM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,654 Brookfield, CT.
pat
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Transplant,
With all due respect, most of us with any island ties know about the different wage and salary structures on both sides of the island, but that's really not the point of this discussion at all. Heck, many here spend near to that amount on their annual trips.....so I can't imagine how the people of the island can live on those annual salaries.
But it's the deception over the tipping/ service/tax/gratuity/etal that literally drives everyone crazy.
A wise lady once stated here on this forum the best thing is assume if there's an add-on, you're covered unless you're absolutely inclined to leave more for whatever your reasoning. I'm good with that. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMScubaman]
#39058
02/10/2015 09:45 PM
02/10/2015 09:45 PM
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,654 Brookfield, CT.
pat
Traveler
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 14,654
Brookfield, CT.
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Scuba,
I'm inclined to agree, the fifteen percent add-on in many cases has done absolutely nothing to promote good service from some wait staffs but since there's nothing we can do to change the practice, we need to come to terms with it and accept it as one more island idiosyncrasy.
And again, for those service people who do go the extra mile, we are all at our own liberty to reward their extra efforts, and I'm inclined to think most do show their appreciation in this way. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />
Respectfully,
pat
"Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them."
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: SXMScubaman]
#39059
02/10/2015 09:59 PM
02/10/2015 09:59 PM
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Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 141
Computerwise
Traveler
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Traveler
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 141
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It's a slippery slope of taxes, surcharges and service charges/tipping that restaurants, car rental and condo rentals charge. Cheri's, a restaurant with a long history, charges a 5% tax. Tell the waiter to take it off, it's illegal. They know better but 90% of the patrons don't know. Went to rent a condo, wanted to add 9% tax, told them it's 5% and they said of course, yes you are correct. Ask if the 15% fee is the tip and they say it's a service charge. Car rental "tax" is anywhere from 10 to 16 pct. It's very simple, be diligent when you are about to purchase a service or get a bill and make sure it's correct. If it's not correct, ask to have it changed. If you like your server, tip them in cash an amount you feel appropriate if there is a service charge also.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: boucharda]
#39066
02/11/2015 08:27 AM
02/11/2015 08:27 AM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,564 Ohio
ruralcarrier
Traveler
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,564
Ohio
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Is the restaurant you mentioned known for ribs?
J.D.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: transplantsxm]
#39069
02/11/2015 08:56 AM
02/11/2015 08:56 AM
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Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 1,359 a little right of center
2fingers
Traveler
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a little right of center
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transplantsxm said:GaKaye said:SXMWendell said: But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business.
I couldn't figure out how to say this without sounding callous and uncaring. You expressed it perfectly. The French side waiters have a decent livable minimum wage the Dutch side does not. If I am up to date I think the minimum wage is NAf 7.65 or $4.29 an hour. Want to try to live on $8900 a year on Dutch Sint Maarten? Hi, I'll have a cheeseburger and a pepsi. Would you like fries with that sir? Yes, please. 20 minutes later she shows up with my cheeseburger and fries. Is that a skill set that deserves more then minimum wage?
"It's 5 o'clock somewhere!"
<img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/usflag.gif" alt="" />
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: plequerre]
#39071
02/11/2015 09:45 AM
02/11/2015 09:45 AM
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Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 13,436 Peaceful Eastern North Carolin...
GaKaye
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plequerre said: "because there was no other place to put the tip if you want to add it by credit card."
This one has a very good chance of winning the award for lamest explanation of the year <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" /> Actually, I think the explanation was legitimate, as it is not normal in European countries to add the tip to a credit card, but it is in the US and many Americans want to do that. When it was added to our check, and I'm almost positive it was at Pineapple Pete, the waiter pointed it out and told us it was the service, without our asking.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: 2fingers]
#39072
02/11/2015 12:28 PM
02/11/2015 12:28 PM
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Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 1,553 Manhattan
weeks5051
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Manhattan
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2fingers said:transplantsxm said:GaKaye said:SXMWendell said: But I also feel that it is not the clients responsibility to make sure the waitperson gets paid. That is the responsibility of the owner of the business.
I couldn't figure out how to say this without sounding callous and uncaring. You expressed it perfectly. The French side waiters have a decent livable minimum wage the Dutch side does not. If I am up to date I think the minimum wage is NAf 7.65 or $4.29 an hour. Want to try to live on $8900 a year on Dutch Sint Maarten? Hi, I'll have a cheeseburger and a pepsi. Would you like fries with that sir? Yes, please. 20 minutes later she shows up with my cheeseburger and fries. Is that a skill set that deserves more then minimum wage? That may or may not be the fault of the kitchen and not the waitstaff.
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Re: Pineapple Pete tax/service
[Re: boucharda]
#39073
02/11/2015 05:51 PM
02/11/2015 05:51 PM
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Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 17,564 Ohio
ruralcarrier
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Ohio
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boucharda said: No, I mentioned it in the other thread...it is the Caribbean restaurant to the left of Lee's
Food was good....my tip was the "tax" plus a bit more to get it near 20% Ok and thanks. I was pretty sure it was the one I alluded to or the one going the other direction. We ate there 2 years ago. Decent but nothing memorable and have not been back.
J.D.
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