Pre-tip them as planned. As a 'worker dude', the cost of everything being so high makes people think i get a fair slice of the pie. We do not get 1/10 of what would be considered our fair share of our slice.
So unless they know you from last time because you stood out as a great customer one way or the other, tip upfront. The whole concept of tips is backwards if you think about it. The waiter/worker goes above and beyond with no clue if you will recognize it ? Inform them you are buying lunch / happy hour, depending on when they show up.
Then watch them a second time. Next year will be your 3rd rodeo and we will only have to fill in small blanks.
Then watch them a second time. Next year will be your 3rd rodeo and we will only have to fill in small blanks.