Fine Dining Server Salary in Seattle, WA
Fine Dining Servers in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $26.16 per hour, which translates to about $1,046.40 per week, $4,534.40 per month, and $54,412.80 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Seattle is growing at a steady rate of about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in high-end hospitality and restaurant industries.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Seattle varies depending on experience, skill, and establishment, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,591.73 | $43,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $26.16 | $1,046.40 | $4,534.40 | $54,412.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.72 | $1,748.80 | $7,582.13 | $90,937.60 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Seattle Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn significant tips in addition to their base salary. In Seattle, they can earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume. This can substantially increase overall earnings, sometimes by thousands of dollars annually.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average hourly wage of about $21.11, which amounts to roughly $43,908.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Seattle earn higher base pay, with an hourly rate of $26.16 and yearly earnings of around $54,412.80. This difference reflects Seattle's higher cost of living and demand for skilled servers in upscale dining venues.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Medina: $26.24 per hour
- Seattle: $26.16 per hour
Medina offers slightly higher wages, but Seattle remains a primary market for fine dining careers with competitive compensation.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Seattle?
Several factors influence the earnings of a Fine Dining Server in Seattle:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced servers with excellent customer service and knowledge of fine dining etiquette command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels tend to offer higher base pay and better tipping opportunities than casual dining spots.
- Shift Timings: Working popular dinner shifts or weekends can increase earnings due to higher customer volume and possible shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training in wine service, menu knowledge, and alcohol server permits can enhance employability and pay.
- Local Economy: Seattle's robust economy and tourism industry supports higher wages for hospitality roles.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Seattle
Becoming a Fine Dining Server in Seattle generally involves the following steps:
- Gain Hospitality Experience: Start by working in customer service roles to develop communication and multitasking skills.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Courses: Institutions like Seattle Culinary Academy and South Seattle College offer valuable training in restaurant operations and fine dining service.
- Obtain Key Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory, and an Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is required for servers handling alcoholic beverages.
- Develop Knowledge of Fine Dining Etiquette: Understanding formal service techniques, wine pairing basics, and menu presentation are crucial skills.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Seattle
Seattle's vibrant fine dining scene includes several prestigious establishments regularly hiring Fine Dining Servers:
- Canlis
- The Pink Door
- Metropolitan Grill
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Seattle Work At
Fine Dining Servers in Seattle typically work in a variety of settings, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offering upscale service and premium pay with substantial tipping opportunities.
- Luxury Hotels: Often command competitive salaries and benefit packages.
- Exclusive Clubs and Event Venues: May provide high hourly rates and opportunities for large tips during events.
- Casual and Chain Restaurants: Usually have lower base pay and tips compared to upscale locations.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect both the base salary and potential tips for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in related roles in hospitality, consider opportunities as:
These include Bartender, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, all relevant roles within the food and beverage service sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Seattle
Fine Dining Servers in Seattle should be familiar with state and federal labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website offers comprehensive information about Washington labor laws and workplace regulations.
- U.S. Department of Labor website provides federal labor laws, wage standards, and rights information relevant across the nation.