Fine Dining Server Salary in Garden-Grove, CA
Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.93 per hour, which translates to about $757.20 per week, $3,281.20 per month, and $39,374.40 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities within the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Garden-Grove, CA?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Garden-Grove can vary depending on experience, skills, and establishment size. Here's a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.93 | $757.20 | $3,281.20 | $39,374.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.50 | $1,100.00 | $4,766.67 | $57,200.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips. In fine dining settings, servers often receive an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase overall earnings and provide incentive for excellent customer service.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Garden-Grove, CA vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Fine Dining Servers is $21.14, with an annual median salary of approximately $43,971.20.
Comparatively, Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove earn slightly less at about $18.93 per hour and $39,374.40 annually. This difference can be influenced by local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garden-Grove, CA for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby cities with higher average hourly wages for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Anaheim: $20.17 per hour
- Orange: $18.61 per hour
Commuting to Anaheim could provide better pay opportunities, but Garden-Grove remains competitive with nearby cities.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Garden-Grove?
Several factors influence how much a Fine Dining Server earns in Garden-Grove:
- Experience Level: More experienced servers tend to command higher base wages and more significant tips due to skillful service and familiarity with fine dining etiquette.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of wine, food pairings, and customer service excellence enhances earning potential. Certifications like Certified Sommelier can be a valuable asset.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues often offer higher wages and tip opportunities compared to casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Local Economy and Competition: The demand for quality service in Garden-Grove and surrounding areas affects salary scales.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Garden-Grove
Becoming a successful Fine Dining Server in Garden-Grove involves several steps:
- Complete relevant education programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Orange Coast College, which provides comprehensive training in food service and restaurant management.
- Consider the Hospitality Management Program at Cypress College to learn hospitality operations and customer service skills essential for fine dining.
- Obtain mandatory certifications such as the California Food Handler Card, which demonstrates knowledge of food safety practices required for all food service employees in California.
- Advanced certifications like Certified Sommelier enhance knowledge and reputation in fine dining establishments.
- Gain hands-on experience in local fine dining venues to develop service techniques and familiarity with upscale client expectations.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove
Several established companies are known to hire Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove, including:
- Red Robin
- Panda Restaurant Group
- Yoshiharu Ramen Restaurant
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work across a variety of dining environments, which can influence earnings:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments generally offer higher base pay and tips due to upscale clientele and complex service requirements.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Servers here often earn less base pay and fewer tips compared to fine dining settings.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may provide stable wages and benefits but vary in tipping culture.
- Event and Banquet Facilities: Pay can fluctuate depending on event size and type.
The type of establishment greatly affects the total compensation package for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garden-Grove for Fine Dining Servers
Fine Dining Servers can explore related positions in the hospitality industry, which may offer similar skills and earning potential.
These roles include Bartender, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, each sharing overlapping responsibilities and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Garden-Grove
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Fine Dining Servers working in Garden-Grove.
- Federal labor laws and wage regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California’s employment standards, worker rights, and labor resources are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations website.