Is the standard restaurant tip on the rise in Toronto? According to an article published by the Toronto Star today, some restaurateurs are using wireless debit and credit machines to prompt diners to leave more than the generally agreed upon 15 per cent. Although it's yet to be determined how widespread the practice is, the fact that some restaurants are urging customers to up their gratuity is enough to get people talking about what's fair and reasonable when it comes to compensating servers in this city.

Earlier today we asked our Twitter followers to share what they think the standard tip should be in Toronto and to weigh in on whether or not 20 per cent was too high. The answers are expectedly varied, but one trend worth noting is that diners aren't jazzed with the idea that they'd be obligated to tip more because restaurant owners aren't willing to bump up their employees wages.

"We feel we are providing great service. Waiters don't get paid too much," Tom Earl, co-owner of The Westerly, told the Star. Earl might be kicking himself for uttering that line, but it seems like he has half of it right: if the service is top notch, most diners seem willing to pitch in extra tip.

Where do you stand?

Photo by cafemama on Flickr