DDE Reactions

[pox24]

This past week we used our DDE quite often. In each case when the bill came, we then gave the DDE card to the CM. The adjusted bill was brought back with the 18% already added in. Naturally we didn't think it was fair to tip twice, however it seemed the CM's were upset when we revealed the card. There're still getting a gratuity, aren't they? Has any one else noticed this reaction?

[wendy*darling]

I'm not sure what you mean by tipping twice?

When we used our DDE card earlier this month, we made sure to tell the server before we ordered. Then, at the end of the meal, we presented the card before they brought out the bill.
When the bill came, it did (as per the 2008 rule) have the 18% gratuity included.
We paid (adding more tip if we think it is warranted) and then we were done.

We did not have anyone ever look upset or annoyed when we told them about the card. But we did always present it before they brought the check- that way they didn't have to go back do it over.

[KylesMom]

We had no problems with double-tipping on our bill or upset servers in July/August utilizing our DDE card. We ate at approximately 13 TS restaurants that accepted the DDE, as well as two separate lounges for cocktails.

Sometimes we would let the server know beforehand we were using the DDE, and other times we just let it slide until the end of the meal to see if there was a different "service level" since the 18% gratuity was to be included.

In either case, the servers were happy to take the card, adjust the bill with our 20% discount and add in the 18% automatic gratuity. We did have two servers (one at Plaza Restaurant and one at Chef Mickey's) who did not automatically add in the gratuity, one stating that she was not going to tell us what her tip should be.

On several occasions, however, we did add more on the "optional" tip line at the bottom of the bill due to outstanding service. Is this what you are referring to?

As a side note, in no instance did we notice a different service level either way - whether or not the server knew they were getting 18% up front or not with the DDE card.

[DizneyRox]

In each case when the bill came, we then gave the DDE card to the CM. The adjusted bill was brought back with the 18% already added in.
This is the current policy regarding the DDE card use.


Naturally we didn't think it was fair to tip twice, however it seemed the CM's were upset when we revealed the card. There're still getting a gratuity, aren't they?
Yes, no need to tip any more than the 18%. Maybe they were upset they worked harder than they needed to to get their tip. When gratiuty is automatically added for me that's all you get, AND the service better be worth 18% tip.


Has any one else noticed this reaction?
I have heard reports of the DDP in recent years that people felt their level of service was worse than before. They attributed that to knowing the CM was going to get the same tip regardless.

[mudpuppysmom]

We used it in January and most of the time the CM's serving got a bit more than the 18% already added on.....we looked at it as we got 20% off the bill, so the standard 18% tip was acceptable most of the time......SOME of the time we added more, but it tells you on the receipt that the 18% was added on and if you want to tip more you can do so on "this line".

I would have to say that the majority of the time we were fine with the 18% tip and that was even at buffets!! The CM's servicing us went above and beyond just clearing the table and getting drinks.......they chatted and played little games with DS and inquired about our vacation and where we were from....we reciprocated with them and DS actually learned a few things from a few of the CM's serving us! One in particular was at Cali Grill.....DS asked about how to say a color in a different language....the CM was happy to talk with DS about this and wrote all the "answers" beside the colors.....they talked for it seemed like 15 minutes!

Really, for the most part the CM's are worthy of extra tip at the places we eat.

[SteveL]

We didn't encounter any problems using it. A few CMs even made a point of telling us that the gratuity was added in so we didn't "double tip". They got extra for being up front about it.

[sillyolbear]

We've never experienced a problem and more than not give an additional tip. If the server asks, I am quick to tell them we're using DDE.

However, when you check in at the podium and the host/hostess cast member asks if you are on the dining plan and you answer,"no DDE", then the slip of paper they leave on the table when you are seated that the server picks up when they first arrive at the table says DDE. So they know anyway.