Big tipper
Six Hub servers take in $2,021 gratuity
Here’s proof 2021 will be a better year for bars in Boston.
A generous tipper handed out $2,021 to the wait staff at six different establishments Wednesday night in what’s being hailed as a much-needed shot of goodwill.
“It’s a ray of sunshine in this storm and an inspiration to others,” Doug Bacon, president of Red Paint Hospitality Group, said of the tips that add up to more than $12,000.
His server was the recipient of a $2,021 tip at the Corner Tavern on Marlborough Street. Bacon said the phased reopening orders from the Baker administration and shutdowns during the pandemic has left the industry reeling.
“It’s worse than anyone can imagine. People in the industry are just getting by. But this brings hope,” said Bacon, who owns eight restaurants and bars in Boston. “There are good things coming on the horizon.”
Corner Tavern server Conor Gallivan, 29, said the tip was “overwhelming” and he immediately used it to pay off a few bills.
“It was just a random Wednesday night in a year like this and that tip was stunning,” Gallivan said. “It’s an absolute blessing.”
Many restaurants and bars have been closed for good or gone into hibernation waiting for the vaccine rollout while other owners are just trying to survive on takeout business and limited dining inside and outside.
Ernie Boch Jr. admitted to the Herald — after a reporter tracked him down — that he was the champion tipper.
The music-loving car magnate said he feels bad for businesses just trying to keep the door open, so he dug deep into his own pockets.
“It’s just so outrageous what’s happening,” Boch said. “So many stores are just gone. Shuttered. I
just want to try to do my part.”
He’s also challenging Bostonians to do whatever they can to tip and frequent their favorite restaurants. “If you can do it, do it!” he added.
Boch is a philanthropist who is comfortable in front of the camera. This time, he just wanted to have a good meal and a drink with friends and leave a helluva tip. And repeat it. His generosity
is beginning to make the rounds on social media, so we called him up.
“The tip,” Gallivan said, “gives us all hope. A lot of people, especially with take out, have been tipping. Everything lately just wears you down, but this is heartwarming.”
He’s hoping for the day when everybody knows your name again at your favorite Boston bar.