Fine Dining Server Salary in Milwaukee, WI
Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $17.70 per hour, which translates to about $708.00 per week, $3,068.00 per month, and $36,816.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Milwaukee, WI?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Milwaukee varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.34 | $413.60 | $1,793.87 | $21,484.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.70 | $708.00 | $3,068.00 | $36,816.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.31 | $1,212.40 | $5,251.73 | $63,044.80 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee earn tips as a significant part of their income. On average, they can expect to earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which greatly enhances their overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Milwaukee vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $19.89 per hour, which translates to approximately $41,371.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $17.70 and an annual salary of $36,816.00. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Milwaukee for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas where Fine Dining Servers can earn higher wages include:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- East Side: $19.80 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Milwaukee typically earn the highest wages, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Milwaukee?
Several factors impact how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Milwaukee:
- Experience and Skill: Servers with more experience and polished service skills command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Exclusive fine dining restaurants vs casual eateries influence base pay and tipping potential.
- Shift and Hours: Working peak hours, weekends, or holidays can lead to higher earnings through tips and potential shift differentials.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busy venues in prime locations often yield better income for servers.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Milwaukee
Becoming a Fine Dining Server in Milwaukee involves gaining relevant experience and skills tailored to upscale hospitality settings.
Consider formal education and training programs such as the Milwaukee Area Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive culinary training beneficial for understanding fine dining operations. Also, the Waukesha County Technical College Hospitality Management Program provides valuable education on restaurant management and service excellence.
Certification is important for positions involving food and alcohol service. The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and ensures knowledge of food safety, often mandatory for servers. Additionally, the Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server Training is a required program that focuses on responsible alcohol service and legal compliance within the state.
Hands-on experience through internships or entry-level roles in restaurants helps refine skills critical for fine dining environments.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee
Some of the leading establishments hiring Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee include:
- Sanford Restaurant
- Ardent
- Bacchus House
- Odd Duck
- MO'S A PLACE FOR STEAKS
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in venues that offer an upscale dining experience. Common establishments include:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salary and tipping potential due to premium pricing and demanding service standards.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: Serve guests in elegant settings, often with consistent busy service periods and higher earnable tips.
- Specialty Food and Wine Bars: Can provide opportunities for servers knowledgeable in beverage pairings and fine cuisine.
The type of establishment heavily influences salary differences, with casual dining venues offering lower wages and tips compared to exclusive properties.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Milwaukee for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in hospitality roles related to Fine Dining Server, consider these similar careers that utilize overlapping skills and may provide new opportunities:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, all of which involve providing customer service in food service environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee
Fine Dining Servers in Milwaukee should be familiar with applicable labor laws and taxes to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Review federal labor laws and regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Wisconsin-specific employment information is available via the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- Local employment resources and regulations can be found on the City of Milwaukee official website.