Fine Dining Server Salary in Tacoma, WA
Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma is growing at about 5% per year, signaling a positive job outlook for individuals in this role in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Tacoma, WA?
The earnings of a Fine Dining Server in Tacoma vary depending on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Servers in fine dining establishments can often make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Tacoma vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, amounting to about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma earn slightly less per hour ($13.90) and annually ($28,912), which could reflect local cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tacoma for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas provide varying salary opportunities for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Tacoma: $15.50 per hour
- North End: $17.60 per hour
Servers commuting to these neighborhoods could benefit from higher hourly wages compared to Tacoma averages.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Tacoma?
Several factors affect how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Tacoma:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced servers typically command higher wages and better tips.
- Quality of Establishment: Upscale and exclusive restaurants usually offer better pay and more lucrative tipping opportunities.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts are often busier and can yield higher tip income.
- Customer Base: High-end clientele tend to tip more generously, influencing total earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training in hospitality or fine dining service can improve employability and wage levels.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Tacoma
Becoming a Fine Dining Server in Tacoma involves a combination of training, certification, and hands-on experience.
Consider enrolling in local culinary arts programs such as Tacoma Community College Culinary Arts Program or Bates Technical College Culinary Arts Program which provide helpful knowledge and skills applicable in fine dining settings.
Additionally, securing certifications like the Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers and essential for maintaining food safety compliance.
An Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is also required for servers in establishments that serve alcohol, ensuring adherence to responsible beverage service laws.
Starting out as a server in casual dining and advancing through training and experience can pave the way to fine dining opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma
Several prominent employers in Tacoma seek skilled Fine Dining Servers:
- E3 Co. Restaurant Group
- Red Robin
- Columbia Hospitality
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma Work At
Fine Dining Servers generally find employment in a range of hospitality venues:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer the highest salaries and best tip opportunities due to upscale menus and clientele.
- Casual Dining Establishments: Offer moderate wages and tips, with a faster-paced environment.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: These often provide steadier wages, sometimes with benefits but may have moderate tipping.
- Event Venues and Catering Companies: Pay and tipping can vary depending on the event and client.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and tipping potential for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tacoma for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in careers related to Fine Dining Server, you might consider the following positions that have some overlapping skills and duties:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Hostess positions, which require strong customer service skills and involve hospitality interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma
It is important for Fine Dining Servers in Tacoma to understand federal, state, and local labor regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and worker rights.
- Washington State specific labor laws and workplace safety regulations can be found on the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website.
- Local rules and resources for workers and businesses in Tacoma are available at the City of Tacoma official website.