Fine Dining Server Salary in Clarksville, TN
Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.07 per hour, which translates to about $602.80 per week, $2,612.13 per month, and $31,345.60 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the fine dining sector in this region.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Clarksville, TN?
The salary for Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville can vary widely depending on experience, skill, and the establishment. Here is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.61 | $384.40 | $1,664.40 | $19,972.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.07 | $602.80 | $2,612.13 | $31,345.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.64 | $945.60 | $4,069.07 | $48,995.20 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville typically earn tips, which can significantly increase their overall income. On average, they can earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and service quality, sometimes adding up to almost $100 or more per day through gratuities alone.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Clarksville vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn about $17.30 per hour, which is roughly $35,984 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $15.07 and an annual salary of $31,345.60.
This difference may be influenced by the cost of living in Clarksville as well as the range and size of fine dining opportunities available.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clarksville for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas with higher pay for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Sango: $17.00 per hour
These adjacent neighborhoods and communities may offer better compensation, making them attractive options for Fine Dining Servers willing to commute.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Clarksville?
Several factors can impact a Fine Dining Server’s salary in Clarksville:
- Experience and Expertise: Servers with extensive experience and excellent customer service skills tend to command higher wages and earn more in tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants typically pay more than casual dining or fast casual eateries. Upscale venues often provide higher base wages and better tipping opportunities.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or higher tip potential.
- Location: Servers working in higher-paying neighborhoods like Downtown or Sango may receive better compensation.
- Certification and Training: Knowledge of wine, food pairings, and etiquette can boost earnings, as well as completion of relevant hospitality courses.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Clarksville
To pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Clarksville, consider the following steps:
- Gain experience in customer service and food service environments, starting perhaps as a busser or host to understand restaurant flow.
- Complete relevant educational programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Nashville State Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques and restaurant management.
- Enroll in the Hospitality Management Program at Austin Peay State University to develop knowledge in hospitality operations and customer service excellence.
- Obtain certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, necessary for compliance with Tennessee food safety regulations.
- Secure the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit, which is mandatory for serving alcoholic beverages in the state.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville
Several well-known employers seek skilled Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville:
- Applebee's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Panda Restaurant Group
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide the highest wages and best tipping potential due to upscale clientele and higher menu prices.
- Casual Dining: Generally offers moderate pay and tips, suitable for servers starting out or preferring less formal environments.
- Chain Restaurants: While these may pay less on average, they provide steady work and possibly benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: Serving guests in these establishments can offer a mixture of base wages and tips, dependent on the prestige of the property.
The salary can vary considerably based on the level of the establishment and its clientele, with fine dining venues rewarding servers for providing high-quality, attentive service.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clarksville for Fine Dining Servers
If you're interested in related roles to Fine Dining Server, consider exploring positions such as:
These roles include Server, Bartender, and Banquet Server, each sharing similar skillsets and offering different earning potentials and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Clarksville
Fine Dining Servers should be informed about local and federal labor laws that govern their employment conditions:
- For Tennessee state labor laws, wage information, and regulations, visit the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal labor standards, including minimum wage, overtime rules, and workers’ rights, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.