Fine Dining Server Salary in Knoxville, TN
Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the city's fine dining hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Knoxville varies based on experience and establishment reputation. Below is an overview of earnings at different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can significantly boost earnings, often adding an extra $10 per hour or more, depending on the restaurant’s clientele and service quality.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville earn slightly less hourly at $13.90, and a yearly salary slightly below the national average. This variance reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Knoxville: $15.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $17.60 per hour
Servers working in West Knoxville tend to earn the highest pay due to more upscale establishments and higher demand.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several factors impact how much a Fine Dining Server earns in Knoxville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced servers with expert knowledge of fine dining etiquette and menu details command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale and luxury restaurants tend to pay better salaries and offer more generous tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can be more lucrative due to higher customer volume and increased tips.
- Customer Interaction and Upselling: Ability to provide exceptional service and upsell menu items often results in increased tips.
- Local Economy and Competition: Economic health of Knoxville influences general salary levels and job availability.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Knoxville
For those interested in becoming a Fine Dining Server in Knoxville, here are key steps:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like Pellissippi State Community College Culinary Arts Program and University of Tennessee Culinary Institute provide strong foundational skills relevant to fine dining.
- Obtain Server Certifications: Licenses such as the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit and the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are generally required and demonstrate food safety and legal compliance knowledge.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting with entry-level serving jobs in local restaurants helps develop customer service skills essential for fine dining.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville
The following well-known employers are frequently hiring Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville:
- Copper Cellar Family of Restaurants
- Condado Tacos
- Metro Diner
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville Work At
Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville typically work in upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and fine dining establishments. These venues generally offer higher wages and tipping potential compared to casual or fast casual restaurants.
The type of establishment significantly affects earnings; fine dining restaurants prioritize exemplary service and often yield the best financial rewards for servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Fine Dining Servers
If you're interested in roles similar to Fine Dining Server, here are a few closely related positions to consider:
The roles include Bartender, Backwaiter, and Server, each offering unique opportunities within the hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Knoxville
Fine Dining Servers should familiarize themselves with Tennessee labor laws and federal regulations to ensure proper employment practices and tax compliance.
- Detailed information about state labor laws can be found on the official Tennessee government website.
- For federal employment standards and labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s site.