Do You Tip at Omakase Restaurants in Hong Kong?

No, you do not need to. Most sit-down restaurants in Hong Kong, including omakase counters, add a 10% service charge to the bill. That charge covers service, and no extra tip is expected.

The short answer. Service charge: usually 10%, already on the bill. Extra tip: not expected. If you want to thank the chef: say so, come back, or buy the chef a drink if the counter offers it.

How the 10% works

Menu prices at most sit-down restaurants are shown before service. A HKD 588 lunch becomes HKD 646.80 with 10%. A HKD 2,250 lunch becomes HKD 2,475. Budget for it when you compare prices. See what sushi really costs in Hong Kong.

Is the service charge a tip?

It is a restaurant charge, not a personal gift, and how it is shared among staff varies by restaurant. Most diners in Hong Kong treat it as sufficient.

Japanese custom

In Japan, tipping is not customary, and many Japanese chefs working in Hong Kong follow the same etiquette. A sincere thank-you — "gochisōsama deshita" at the end — is appreciated more than cash.

Want to show thanks? Offer to buy the chef a glass of sake if the counter does that; many do. Leave a good review. Or book again — regulars are what small counters value most.

When people do leave extra

Some diners round up small amounts in cash, or leave a little more after exceptional service, especially at casual counters where no service charge applies. This is optional.

Chains and takeaway

Belt chains and takeaway counters may not add a service charge. No tip is expected there either.

Check the bill: confirm whether service is already included · watch for premium supplements such as extra uni or toro · ask about corkage if you brought wine. See omakase etiquette.

Deposits are not tips. Premium counters often take a card guarantee or deposit and may charge for late cancellations. Read the terms. See how to book a sushi restaurant.

Common questions

Is tipping rude at an omakase?

Not rude, but not expected. Thanks and return visits matter more.

How much is the service charge?

Usually 10%.

Do I tip at a conveyor belt restaurant?

No.

Where else can I look?

See what is omakase and dress code and seating rules.

Compiled by our editorial team from restaurant information, current venue listings, diner reviews and published menus, retrieved September 2026. Reviews are individual opinions. Prices exclude the 10% service charge unless stated and change without notice. No restaurant paid for inclusion.