Fine Dining Server Salary in Lexington, KY
Fine Dining Servers in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $16.84 per hour, which translates to about $673.60 per week, $2,918.93 per month, and $35,027.20 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Lexington is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating increasing job opportunities and a thriving hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Lexington varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table shows typical earnings at various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.07 | $402.80 | $1,747.47 | $20,973.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.84 | $673.60 | $2,918.93 | $35,027.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.16 | $1,126.40 | $4,873.07 | $58,692.80 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Lexington Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers typically earn an additional amount through tips. In Lexington, these servers can earn an extra $10-$20 per hour in tips on a busy night, which can significantly increase their overall income.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Lexington, KY vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $21.14 per hour, corresponding to approximately $43,971.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Lexington earn less on average, at about $16.84 per hour and $35,027.20 per year, reflecting local economic and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Chevy Chase: $18.00 per hour
Working in these areas near Lexington can offer Fine Dining Servers improved earning opportunities compared to the city average.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Lexington?
Several factors can impact how much a Fine Dining Server earns in Lexington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced servers with refined skills often command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues usually pay more and offer better tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can yield higher earnings due to customer volume and tips.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills can improve tip amounts and job prospects.
- Location: Servers working in higher-income areas or popular dining districts often earn more.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Lexington
To pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Lexington, aspiring professionals can consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Sullivan University provide valuable hands-on training for service excellence.
- Enroll in Hospitality Management Courses: The Hospitality Management Program at Bluegrass Community and Technical College offers skills relevant to fine dining service.
- Acquire Required Certifications: Obtaining a Food Handler's Card is mandatory in Kentucky for all food service employees.
- Obtain TIPS Certification: This certification teaches responsible alcohol service, important in fine dining venues.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start with entry-level server roles and build skills in customer interaction and table service.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Lexington
Some of the leading employers seeking Fine Dining Servers in Lexington include:
- Logan's Roadhouse
- Texas Roadhouse
- Golden Corral Corporation
- Condado Tacos
- Bella Notte
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Lexington Work At
Fine Dining Servers commonly work at a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer the highest salaries and tips, reflecting the high standards of service expected.
- Upscale Casual Dining: Often provide competitive wages and moderate tipping opportunities.
- Hotel Restaurants: May offer stable employment with benefits but slightly lower tips.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Can offer varied income based on event types and clientele.
Differences in establishment reputation, clientele, and service style greatly influence overall earnings for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Fine Dining Servers
If you are exploring careers similar to Fine Dining Server, consider these related roles which share similar skills and work environments:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Waiter/Waitress, all of which require excellent guest service and interpersonal skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Lexington
Fine Dining Servers in Lexington must comply with both federal and local labor laws as well as tax regulations.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for overarching employment laws and worker protections.
- The Kentucky state government website provides specific guidance on state labor laws affecting servers and hospitality staff.
- For local regulations in Lexington, visit the Lexington city government website which covers workplace standards and permits.