Fine Dining Server Salary in Fayetteville, NC
Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $10.50 per hour, which translates to about $420.00 per week, $1,820.00 per month, and $21,840.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasingly vibrant hospitality sector in the region that offers promising job opportunities.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Fayetteville, NC?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Fayetteville varies with experience and position within the establishment. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,253.33 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.48 | $1,259.20 | $5,436.27 | $65,510.40 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville often earn significant tips. It is common for them to make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, greatly supplementing their base wage.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Fayetteville, NC vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $14.76 per hour, translating to about $30,700.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville earn less in both hourly wage and annual salary. The average hourly base pay in Fayetteville is $10.50, with an annual salary of $21,840. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $12.50 per hour
- Haymount: $11.80 per hour
Those seeking higher earnings might consider opportunities in these neighborhoods where wages are comparatively better.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several factors impact how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skill: More experienced servers with strong customer service skills and knowledge of fine dining etiquette tend to earn higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay higher base salaries and generate larger tips compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift Times: Servers working peak hours, evenings, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or increased tip flows.
- Customer Volume and Spending: Working at busy, upscale locations where guests tip generously can significantly raise overall income.
- Certifications and Training: Knowledge of food safety and alcohol service through certifications may improve employability and wages.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Fayetteville
To build a career as a Fine Dining Server in Fayetteville, consider these steps:
- Gain foundational hospitality skills via programs like the Fayetteville Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, which prepares students for various food service roles.
- Enroll in hospitality management education through institutions such as Methodist University Hospitality Management Program for a broader understanding.
- Obtain key certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety regulations.
- Complete the North Carolina Alcohol Server Training program, which is required for servers handling alcoholic beverages in the state.
- Build customer service skills and fine dining experience by working in smaller establishments before moving to higher-end restaurants.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville
Several popular restaurant chains and local establishments actively recruit Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville, including:
- Chili's
- Red Lobster
- IHOP
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville Work At
Fine Dining Servers commonly find employment at a range of establishments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salaries and tipping potential due to upscale menus and clientele.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically offer moderate base wages and tips compared to fine dining.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: These venues usually provide consistent work with potential benefits and higher tips.
- Banquet and Event Venues: Pay can vary but sometimes include generous gratuities depending on event scale.
The type of establishment strongly influences a Fine Dining Server's overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Fine Dining Servers
Those interested in related roles within hospitality might consider similar positions:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Backwaiter, roles that share many core competencies with Fine Dining Servers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Fayetteville
Fine Dining Servers should familiarize themselves with key labor laws and tax requirements applicable locally and federally:
- Learn about federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and worker rights, visit the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- Additional local regulations and resources can be accessed through the City of Fayetteville official website.