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GEORGE PFROMM II

If you’re like most diners, you probably assume that the entirety of the tip you leave at a restaurant or bar goes directly into the pocket of the person who’s serving you. You probably don’t imagine that in some cases, a portion—or the whole amount—might go into the hands of management. Though Seattle’s wage theft ordinance largely prohibits this practice, it still happens.

Just how common is it? According to a recent report, “Behind the Kitchen Door: The Highs and Lows of Seattle’s Booming Restaurant Economy,” 6 percent of 524 Seattle restaurant workers surveyed said management takes a share of their tips. But the actual percentage may be higher…