While some might argue that the barista isn't spending much time retrieving the already-brewed coffee, there is work and time put in to brew the drip coffee throughout the day. Whether or not baristas expect a tip on drip coffee (and many do not), it's always appreciated and encouraged.

In 2026, the etiquette of tipping for coffee has become a subject of much debate due to the ubiquity of digital payment screens. Generally, tipping for a basic "drip" coffee or a simple grab-and-go order is not mandatory, but it is socially appreciated. For labor-intensive "craft" beverages like lattes with complex art or customized pour-overs, a tip of 10% to 15% (or rounding up to the nearest dollar) is the standard in the U.S. and Canada. In 2026, many consumers are experiencing "tip fatigue" from tablet prompts at self-service kiosks; in these cases, clicking "No Tip" is socially acceptable if there was no direct service involved. However, if you are a "regular" at a local cafe or if the barista provides exceptional service during a rush, leaving a small gratuity is a vital way to support service workers in an increasingly expensive urban economy. In contrast, in many European and Asian cities, tipping for coffee remains entirely optional or even discouraged.