Restaurant Manager Salary in Baton Rouge, LA
Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $28.37 per hour, which translates to about $1,134.80 per week, $4,917.47 per month, and $59,009.60 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge is growing modestly at 2% per year, indicating a steady expansion in opportunities within the hospitality sector for this role.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Baton Rouge, LA?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Baton Rouge can vary depending on experience and employer, but below is an overview of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.43 | $977.20 | $4,239.27 | $50,710.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.37 | $1,134.80 | $4,917.47 | $59,009.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.82 | $1,632.80 | $7,065.07 | $84,665.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their pay typically consists of a salary or hourly wage, with bonuses or incentives sometimes provided based on performance rather than direct customer gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Baton Rouge vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, which sums up to approximately $65,312 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge earn slightly less at $28.37 per hour and $59,009.60 annually. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baton Rouge for Restaurant Managers
Looking at nearby areas, the highest-paying locations for Restaurant Managers include:
- Gonzales: $35.21 per hour
- Slidell: $34.87 per hour
These cities offer notably higher wages compared to Baton Rouge, potentially due to differing economic factors or competitive market demand.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Baton Rouge?
Several factors play a role in determining how much a Restaurant Manager can earn in Baton Rouge:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Restaurant Managers typically command higher salaries.
- Skill Set: Strong leadership, customer service, and operational skills can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay more than fast food or casual dining outlets.
- Location and Competition: Proximity to economic hubs or tourist areas can impact pay scales.
- Education and Certifications: Additional qualifications like food safety management or hospitality degrees can positively impact salaries.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Baton Rouge
Becoming a Restaurant Manager in Baton Rouge involves several practical steps and educational pathways:
- Gain Relevant Experience: Working in entry or supervisory roles within restaurants builds foundational knowledge.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Louisiana Culinary Institute or the Hospitality Management Program at Baton Rouge Community College provide valuable expertise in restaurant operations and management.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) credential promote understanding of food safety and managerial skills.
- Develop Soft Skills: Cultivating leadership, communication, and organizational abilities is essential for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge
The following chains and restaurants are among the prominent employers seeking qualified Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Raising Cane's
- Zaxby's
- Popeye's
- KFC
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge Work At
Restaurant Managers typically find employment in a range of dining establishments including:
- Fast Food Chains: Usually offer a structured environment with consistent work hours but may have lower salary scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically blend quick service with higher quality offerings, often resulting in moderate salary ranges.
- Casual Dining: Establishments in this category may offer competitive pay and more responsibility.
- Fine Dining: This segment often pays the highest wages due to the complexity and expectations involved.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with higher-end restaurants generally offering better compensation packages and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baton Rouge for Restaurant Managers
If you are interested in similar careers within the hospitality sector, here are a few alternative roles to consider that share related skills and responsibilities:
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Bar Manager roles—each offering different pathways and opportunities within hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Baton Rouge
Being informed about labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and smooth operations.
- Federal employment standards and labor laws can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific rules and workforce resources are available at the Louisiana Workforce Commission website.
- Local ordinances and updates pertinent to Baton Rouge can be found on the City of Baton Rouge official website.