Fine Dining Server Salary in Kansas City, KS
Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City, KS, in 2026, earn approximately $19.16 per hour, which translates to about $766.40 per week, $3,321.07 per month, and $39,852.80 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the fine dining sector within the city.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Kansas City can vary widely based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings at various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.36 | $534.40 | $2,312.53 | $27,737.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.16 | $766.40 | $3,321.07 | $39,852.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.48 | $1,099.20 | $4,746.40 | $56,950.40 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn additional income through tips. On average, servers can earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings depending on the restaurant and shift.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Kansas City, KS vs. National Average
The national average salary for Fine Dining Servers is approximately $19.16 per hour or about $39,852.80 per year.
Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City earn roughly at the national average, suggesting the local pay scale aligns with broader U.S. standards for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Fine Dining Servers
The pay for Fine Dining Servers varies across different local areas around Kansas City:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $21.00 per hour
Servers working in Country Club Plaza tend to earn the highest wages among these nearby locations due to the area's upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Kansas City?
Experience and skill level directly impact earnings; more experienced servers command higher wages and better tips.
Type of establishment matters considerably; working in upscale or luxury restaurants typically yields higher salaries and tips compared to casual dining spots.
Shift timings also affect pay. Evening and weekend shifts may provide more tipping opportunities.
Customer service skills and knowledge of fine dining etiquette and menus can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Kansas City
To pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Kansas City, individuals should consider the following steps:
- Gain fundamental skills through hospitality training programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training including fine dining service techniques.
- Enroll in programs like the Kansas City Kansas Community College Hospitality Management Program to acquire knowledge about restaurant operations and service excellence.
- Obtain certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure food safety knowledge, which is crucial in the hospitality industry.
- Consider obtaining the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification, especially valuable for responsible alcohol service in fine dining settings.
- Build customer service experience through roles in restaurants or hospitality venues.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City
Several major employers in the region actively hire Fine Dining Servers, including:
- Chili's
- Diversified Restaurant Group
- Applebee's
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City Work At
Fine Dining Servers often work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Upscale Restaurants: These typically offer higher base pay and larger tips due to the premium service level and clientele.
- Casual Dining: May offer steady work, but generally with lower salaries and tips compared to fine dining.
- Hotel Restaurants: Can provide benefits and consistent hours but may vary widely in pay.
- Country Clubs and Event Venues: These settings often demand high service standards and can offer lucrative tipping opportunities.
The type of establishment can significantly influence both salary and tipping potential for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in careers related to Fine Dining Server, here are a few similar roles worth exploring:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter roles which share similar skill sets and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Fine Dining Servers in Kansas City to ensure compliance and proper compensation.
- For state-specific labor laws, the Kansas Department of Labor official website offers extensive information on employment regulations.
- For federal labor standards, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website which provides resources on workplace standards and workers’ rights.