Custom in Japanese food service

NOTIPS

In Japan, leaving money on the table for servers is often politely refused—this practice reflects that.

In Japanese dining culture, it’s traditional not to leave tips for servers, as good service is already included in the bill. The clue plays on this custom by phrasing it as a "custom" (a habit) while also hinting at the answer "NOTIPS"—literally, "no tips." The word "custom" does double duty here, referring both to the practice itself and acting as a subtle nudge toward the answer’s structure.