Fine Dining Server Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $21.85 per hour, which translates to about $874.00 per week, $3,787.33 per month, and $45,448.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the fine dining sector of the city.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Saint-Paul varies based on experience and skill, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.28 | $411.20 | $1,776.53 | $21,312.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.14 | $845.60 | $3,646.93 | $43,931.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.47 | $1,738.80 | $7,511.20 | $90,225.60 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn significant tips. They can expect to make an extra $10-$20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and the clientele, which can substantially increase their total earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Saint-Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn around $21.14 per hour, translating to approximately $43,971 annually.
In Saint-Paul, MN, the average hourly wage for Fine Dining Servers is quite similar at $21.85, with an annual salary of about $45,448, slightly above the national average. This reflects the city’s competitive market and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varied pay scales for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown: $25.72 per hour
- Cathedral Hill: $23.85 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Saint-Paul tend to earn higher wages, likely due to the concentration of upscale restaurants and a steady flow of clientele.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
Several factors can influence how much a Fine Dining Server earns in Saint-Paul:
- Experience and Skill Level: Servers with more years of experience, exceptional customer service skills, and knowledge of fine dining etiquette tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels typically pay better and offer higher tipping potential than casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher demand and better tips. Full-time servers usually have more stable income compared to part-time.
- Certifications and Training: Additional certifications like alcohol service training or culinary knowledge can improve employability and pay.
- Location Within the City: Being employed in higher-paying neighborhoods or busy areas usually results in better earnings.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Saint-Paul
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server takes more than just good service skills. Here are some ways to enhance your prospects:
- Complete Culinary and Service Training: Enroll in culinary and hospitality programs such as the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts Minneapolis/St. Paul, which focus on fine dining skills and standards.
- Obtain Food Safety and Service Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are often required to ensure safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles at restaurants or hotels help develop the necessary skills and customer interaction experience.
- Develop Excellent Communication Skills: Being articulate, attentive, and professionally courteous is essential in fine dining environments.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul
Some of the notable employers looking for Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul include:
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- Eurest
- Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in upscale environments such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Provide the highest tips and wages reflecting the customer expectations and luxury service.
- Hotels and Resorts: Casinos, luxury hotels, and resorts often offer competitive pay and benefits.
- Catering Services and Event Venues: May offer varied pay depending on event size and client type.
- Casual and Fast Casual Establishments: Usually lower wages and fewer tipping opportunities compared to fine dining.
The establishment type greatly affects the salary and tip earnings of servers due to differing clientele and service expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Fine Dining Servers
Those interested in Fine Dining Server roles might also explore similar hospitality careers for variety or advancement.
Related roles include Banquet Server, Server, and Hostess positions, each with varying responsibilities and pay scales within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Saint-Paul
Fine Dining Servers should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements to manage their employment rights and finances effectively.
- Learn about federal labor laws on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific regulations and wage laws, visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website.