Fine Dining Server Salary in Evansville, IN
Fine Dining Servers in Evansville, IN, in 2026, earn approximately $10.79 per hour, which translates to about $431.60 per week, $1,870.27 per month, and $22,443.20 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Evansville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and job opportunities in the fine dining industry in this region.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Evansville, IN?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Evansville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is an overview of earnings at various experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.28 | $411.20 | $1,779.73 | $21,326.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.01 | $800.40 | $3,467.20 | $41,620.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.03 | $1,281.20 | $5,536.53 | $66,502.40 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Evansville Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers in Evansville typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their income. Servers can expect to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips or more depending on the establishment and clientele, making tips an important part of their overall compensation.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Evansville vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $21.14 per hour, translating to about $43,971.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Evansville earn less, with the average hourly rate at $10.79 and annual pay at $22,443.20. This difference reflects regional variations in wage standards and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evansville for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas where Fine Dining Servers may find higher wages include:
- Downtown Evansville: $12.50 per hour
- East Side: $11.80 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Evansville have the potential to earn more compared to other parts of the city, thanks to its concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Evansville?
Experience plays a key role; servers with several years of working in fine dining environments often command higher wages.
Skills such as knowledge of wine, menu details, and excellent customer service boost earning potential.
Type of Establishment matters considerably; luxury restaurants generally pay better than casual or fast food restaurants.
Shift timing and work hours affect pay, with evening or weekend shifts sometimes offering premium pay.
Geographic location within Evansville also affects salaries, as seen in higher-paying neighborhoods.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Evansville
To start or advance a career as a Fine Dining Server in Evansville, consider the following:
- Complete culinary or hospitality-related programs such as the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides hands-on experience pertinent to fine dining service.
- University of Southern Indiana Hospitality Management Program offers skills in restaurant operations and customer service tailored for fine dining settings.
- Obtain relevant certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensuring food safety knowledge, commonly required by fine dining venues.
- Indiana Alcohol Server Training Program is a state-mandated course focusing on responsible alcohol service and legal compliance, often necessary in fine dining roles.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Evansville
The following are prominent employers in Evansville seeking skilled Fine Dining Servers:
- Cunningham Restaurant Group
- Applebee's
- Panda Restaurant Group
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Evansville Work At
Fine Dining Servers usually find opportunities in various types of dining establishments including:
- Fine dining restaurants: These establishments focus on upscale service and gourmet cuisine, offering the highest earning potential through hourly wages and tips.
- Casual dining restaurants: Offer moderate pay and may provide steady hours but typically with lower tips than fine dining.
- Hotels and resorts: Often employ fine dining servers for their premium restaurants, sometimes offering better benefits and a higher base pay.
- Banquet and event venues: These can provide occasional work with varied pay depending on the event.
The type of establishment can greatly influence salary and tips, with fine dining venues generally providing more lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evansville for Fine Dining Servers
Those interested in similar careers to Fine Dining Server might consider the following roles that share skills and work environments:
These include Bartender, Server, and Banquet Server roles, each involving direct customer interaction and service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Evansville
Fine Dining Servers should stay informed about federal and state labor laws:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for information on federal labor laws and wage regulations.
- Check the Indiana state government website for local labor laws and employment standards applicable to servers.