Fine Dining Server Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale, FL, earn approximately $19.38 per hour, which translates to about $775.20 per week, $3,359.20 per month, and $40,310.40 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive market outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector throughout the area.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary for a Fine Dining Server in Fort Lauderdale varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different stages of a career in this role.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.38 | $775.20 | $3,359.20 | $40,310.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.50 | $1,140.00 | $4,930.00 | $59,280.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers typically earn significant tips which can add substantially to their income, often earning an extra $20 to $30 per hour in tips. This makes tip income a crucial part of their overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers make approximately $21.07 per hour and $43,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale earn slightly less hourly at $19.38 but the salary is competitive considering the regional cost of living and local market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas where Fine Dining Servers earn higher wages include:
- Coral Ridge: $22.00 per hour
- Las Olas: $21.50 per hour
These areas offer better pay prospects, reflecting their upscale dining scenes and higher demand for skilled servers.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Fort Lauderdale depends on several factors:
- Experience and Skills: Servers with more refined skills and knowledge of fine dining etiquette often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants typically offer better base pay and tip opportunities than casual dining places.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts can come with increased earning potential due to higher customer volume and potential tips.
- Location: Servers in more affluent neighborhoods or tourist hotspots tend to earn more.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Fort Lauderdale
Becoming a successful Fine Dining Server in Fort Lauderdale involves developing both practical skills and certifications. Some steps include:
- Formal Culinary Programs: Broward College Culinary Arts Program offers hands-on experience ideal for understanding the food service industry.
- Specialized Education: The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Culinary Arts Program helps build skills focused on fine dining practices and restaurant management.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to demonstrate understanding of food safety standards.
- Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification educates on responsible alcohol service, enhancing professionalism and compliance.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale
Some of the notable employers in Fort Lauderdale hiring Fine Dining Servers include:
- Duffy's Sports Grill
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Shooters Waterfront
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Fine Dining Servers primarily work in high-end restaurants, upscale hotels, and exclusive country clubs.
Each type of establishment affects earnings differently. Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels tend to offer higher base salaries and more generous tips. In contrast, working at high-traffic sports grills or casual dining venues may provide more stable hours but typically at lower pay rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in similar careers to Fine Dining Server, consider these related roles that offer overlapping skills and opportunities.
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles, which share skills like customer service and order management in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Fort Lauderdale
Fine Dining Servers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements that apply to their work in Fort Lauderdale.
- Review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Check out the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for state-specific employment regulations and resources.
- For local information and assistance, visit the Broward County official website.