Fine Dining Server in Oak Park, IL
Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job outlook for Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park is positive, with an expected growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled servers in upscale dining establishments.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary for Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park, IL, varies depending on experience and establishment quality. Below is a general overview of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can considerably enhance their overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park earn slightly less hourly at $11.00 per hour and $22,880 annually.
This difference may be affected by local cost of living and demand dynamics in the Oak Park area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Oak Park: $12.00 per hour
- South Oak Park: $11.50 per hour
These adjacent locations may offer slightly higher compensation due to more upscale or busier dining establishments.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several factors affect how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Oak Park:
- Experience and Expertise: Servers with extensive experience and refined service skills command higher wages.
- Type of Restaurant: Upscale or Michelin-starred restaurants typically pay better than casual dining places.
- Certification and Training: Possessing related certifications or completing formal hospitality training can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working peak dining hours or weekends often results in higher tips and sometimes differential pay rates.
- Local Economic Factors: The regional cost of living and competition impact wage levels.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Oak Park
To pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Oak Park, consider these steps:
- Gain Experience in Service Roles: Start in general serving roles and build skills in customer interaction and food knowledge.
- Complete Hospitality Education Programs: Triton College offers a comprehensive Culinary Arts Program providing hands-on experience vital for upscale serving jobs. Nearby Kendall College provides a Hospitality Management Program focusing on restaurant operations and service excellence.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Illinois Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees. Additionally, TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification educates servers on responsible alcohol service, an important skill in fine dining environments.
- Learn Wine and Menu Knowledge: Familiarity with menu items, wine pairings, and etiquette is crucial for fine dining servers.
- Develop Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Creating excellent guest experiences is key to success.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park
Several notable restaurants in Oak Park actively hire Fine Dining Servers, including:
- Cozy Corner
- Maya Del Sol
- Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer the highest wages and expect superior service quality.
- Upscale Casual Dining: Offers moderate wages and opportunities to develop serving skills.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: Temporary or event-based serving roles with varying pay.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually lower pay and less formal service expectations.
The prestige and clientele of the establishment strongly affect salary and tipping potential for servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in related roles within hospitality, here are a few similar careers:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Hostess roles, which have overlapping skills and may offer different career paths within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Oak Park
Fine Dining Servers should be aware of labor laws and tax policies affecting their employment in Oak Park, IL.
- For statewide labor laws, wages, and employment standards check the Official website of the State of Illinois.
- Local regulations and employment resources can be found on the Official website of the Village of Oak Park.
- Federal labor laws and guidelines are available at the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.