Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in San Diego, CA
Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $21.01 per hour, which translates to about $840.40 per week, $3,641.73 per month, and $43,700.80 per year.
The demand for Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities within the restaurant industry in this region.
How Much Does Assistant Restaurant Manager Make in San Diego, CA?
The salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in San Diego can vary depending on experience and employer, but generally falls within these ranges:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,806.67 | $45,760.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,493.33 | $55,520.00 |
Do Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego Earn Tips?
Assistant Restaurant Managers generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation since their role focuses on management, supervision, and operational duties rather than direct customer service that usually involves tipping.
Assistant Restaurant Manager Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Assistant Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $31.40 per hour and $65,312 per year.
Compared to these figures, Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego earn less, with an average of $21.01 hourly and $43,700.80 yearly. This can be attributed to local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Assistant Restaurant Managers
In the areas close to San Diego, salaries for Assistant Restaurant Managers are slightly higher:
- La Jolla: $23.50 per hour
- Downtown San Diego: $24.00 per hour
These neighborhoods offer potentially better pay, reflecting their economic environments and demand for experienced hospitality professionals.
What Influences an Assistant Restaurant Manager’s Salary in San Diego?
Several factors impact the salary of an Assistant Restaurant Manager in San Diego:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership and organizational abilities typically command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or large chains often pay more than small cafes or fast-food outlets.
- Education and Certifications: Relevant education and certifications such as food safety management can enhance pay.
- Location and Demand: Positions in busier or more affluent areas tend to offer better compensation.
How To Become an Assistant Restaurant Manager in San Diego
To pursue a career as an Assistant Restaurant Manager in San Diego, consider these paths:
- Gain Relevant Education: Programs like the San Diego Mesa College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training, including management skills essential for this role.
- Consider Hospitality Management Studies: The Grossmont College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program offers courses that prepare students for leadership in restaurants.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Manager Certification are often required by employers to ensure knowledge of food safety standards.
- Food Handler Compliance: Having a California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees in the state, including managerial staff.
- Build Experience in the Industry: Starting in entry-level restaurant roles and advancing through responsibilities helps build the necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego
Some major employers actively hiring Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego Work At
Assistant Restaurant Managers can find employment in diverse types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer moderate salaries with opportunities for tips and bonuses.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: These venues focus on high volume and efficiency, with usually consistent but modest pay.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end establishments tend to offer higher salaries and better benefits than casual dining.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: These often provide more structured pay scales and additional perks.
The type and prestige of the establishment often influence salary levels and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Assistant Restaurant Managers
If you are considering roles related to Assistant Restaurant Manager, here are a few similar careers to explore:
These include Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Kitchen Manager positions — all with related responsibilities and different salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Assistant Restaurant Managers in San Diego
Assistant Restaurant Managers should understand the applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure legal compliance and financial well-being.
- For federal employment laws and labor statistics, you can visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- California state employment development and labor market information is available at the California Employment Development Department.