Perhaps it is a localized thing. Way back when, I do recall the "suggested" tip for a bartender was 10% and food service 15%. We mostly eat at the bar at most restaurants we go to and just roll the drinks and food together.
I will also say again, in all my trips to St. Maarten/St. Martin, I have ONLY had one restaurant owner or server (when asked) be honest when it came to the service charge on the French side. That was Bruno from La Petite Auberge des Iles.
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