A TikTok user has faced major backlash after starting a debate about restaurant customers who enjoy dining out but don’t leave tips for servers.

The video, which has over 10,000 views, emphasizes the importance of tipping.

Today, social media platforms frequently host discussions about tipping practices in the U.S.

Tipping, while optional, has become a hot topic. Many are frustrated that the standard is 15-20%, with anything less than 20% often seen as inadequate.

In a now-deleted video, a restaurant worker named Lillie, known as @mylasoasis_ on TikTok, made a bold claim. She said that if you can’t afford to tip your server, you shouldn’t eat at restaurants.

Lillie begins her video by saying: “Eating out is a privilege, not a right. If you cannot afford to tip 20%, you can’t afford to eat out.”

She highlights the ongoing debate about servers’ wages in the U.S. While some believe servers should be paid differently, Lillie says that’s not the reality for her or the 1.6 million servers nationwide.

“You can complain that my employer should pay me more, but this is America. That’s not the case,” she says. “I make $3.63 an hour from my restaurant job. My income comes from tips.”

Lillie explains that restaurant menu prices are lower because tipping is expected. “The food is cheaper because you’re expected to leave a tip,” she adds. “If you can’t afford to tip, you don’t deserve to dine out.”

She compares it to hiring a nanny. “It’s like a nanny. If you can’t afford to pay a nanny properly, you don’t deserve one,” she says. Lillie concludes that if you can’t tip, you should get takeout or eat fast food instead.

In the video’s caption, Lillie vents her frustration: “And to anyone who says we should get higher hourly wages… Okay??? BUT WE AREN’T. Not tipping will only make your dining experience WORSE!!!!”

After Lillie’s video, many commented to share their views. One person said they always tip but found Lillie’s tone too demanding. “I always tip, but the entitlement is wild. Find a job that pays better hourly,” they said.

Another agreed, adding, “If the pay isn’t enough, get a different job. This is ridiculous.”

Others supported Lillie’s point. One person wrote: “I make $2.13 an hour and don’t get paychecks at all.” Another said: “SAY IT LOUDER FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK.”

One user suggested supporting businesses that pay fair wages if you oppose tipping. “If someone doesn’t tip because they think employers should pay more, they should dine at places that do,” they said.

Some disagreed with Lillie’s stance that a 20% tip is always required. “I tip based on service,” one commenter said. “I give 20% or more unless the service is very bad.”