Fine Dining Server Salary in Franklin, TN
Fine Dining Servers in Franklin, TN in 2025 earn approximately $14.46 per hour, which translates to about $578.40 per week, $2,506.40 per month, and $30,076.80 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Franklin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and encouraging opportunities for those looking to enter this position.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Franklin, TN?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Franklin varies based on experience, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.05 | $482.00 | $2,086.67 | $25,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.46 | $578.40 | $2,506.40 | $30,076.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.35 | $694.00 | $2,996.67 | $35,988.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Franklin Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Depending on the establishment and daily volume, servers can earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Franklin vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $21.14 per hour, which equates to roughly $43,971.20 per year.
Compare that to Franklin, where the hourly wage is about $14.46 and the yearly salary is around $30,076.80, showing that the local pay is somewhat lower than the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Franklin for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Franklin: $15.50 per hour
- Cool Springs: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in Cool Springs have the opportunity to earn higher hourly rates compared to those in other nearby areas.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Franklin?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Franklin is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced servers who excel in customer service often command higher wages and larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants tend to pay better and offer more lucrative tipping possibilities than casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Servers working peak hours or weekends may receive shift differentials or more tips.
- Certification and Training: Specialized knowledge, such as wine service or food pairing expertise, can set servers apart and improve earnings.
- Local Economic Factors: Franklin’s cost of living and local demand for fine dining influences wages and tip potential.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Franklin
Steps to pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Franklin include:
- Enroll in Hospitality and Culinary Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Nashville State Community College provide valuable training in food safety, service etiquette, and restaurant operations.
- Study Hospitality Management: Consider the Hospitality Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University to deepen knowledge of food and beverage management and customer service techniques relevant to fine dining.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure essential food safety knowledge.
- Acquire Tennessee-Specific Permits: The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is necessary for those serving alcoholic beverages in the state.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in restaurants or hospitality venues to develop skills and build a clientele can enhance employability.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Franklin
Several prominent restaurants in Franklin actively seek Fine Dining Servers, including:
- Perry's Steakhouse and Grille
- Sperry's Restaurant
- Connors Steak and Seafood
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Franklin Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work at various hospitality establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer the highest wages and tips due to upscale clientele and extensive service standards.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Servers here may enjoy competitive pay and additional benefits.
- Event Venues and Catering Companies: These settings can provide diverse work experiences with varying pay scales.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually lower pay and tips compared to fine dining but can offer more steady work hours.
The type of establishment influences earnings significantly, with more prestigious locations offering elevated income potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Franklin for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in roles similar to Fine Dining Server, consider these related careers that utilize comparable skills and offer varying salary potentials.
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, which share many responsibilities with Fine Dining Servers but differ in setting and career trajectories.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Franklin
Fine Dining Servers in Franklin need to be aware of labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Visit the official website of the State of Tennessee for detailed information on state labor laws, minimum wage, and employment rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website offers resources on federal labor standards, tips regulations, and worker protections.