Restaurant Manager Salary in Buffalo, NY
Restaurant Managers in Buffalo, NY, in 2026, earn approximately $28.26 per hour, which translates to about $1,130.40 per week, $4,898.40 per month, and $58,780.80 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Buffalo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the hospitality and food service sector.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Buffalo can vary depending on experience and specific employer factors. Here’s a general overview broken down by experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,167.47 | $50,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.26 | $1,130.40 | $4,898.40 | $58,780.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.83 | $1,393.20 | $6,034.80 | $72,417.60 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Buffalo, NY Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers generally do not earn tips as their role focuses on overseeing operations rather than direct customer service. Their earnings primarily come from a salary or hourly wage rather than gratuities.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Buffalo, NY vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of about $28.26 per hour, which amounts to roughly $58,780.80 per year.
The salary for Restaurant Managers in Buffalo aligns closely with the national average, reflecting competitive pay rates in the city corresponding to the cost of living and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Restaurant Managers
When considering nearby areas, Restaurant Managers may see slightly different pay scales based on location:
- Downtown Buffalo: $30.00 per hour
- Elmwood Village: $29.50 per hour
These localized variations often reflect the differing restaurant scenes and clientele in each area, with Downtown Buffalo offering the highest hourly wages on average.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Buffalo, NY?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Restaurant Manager in Buffalo:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Restaurant Managers typically command higher salaries, especially if they have proven leadership in managing large or high-profile venues.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or fine dining restaurants generally pay more than casual dining or fast food chains.
- Skills and Certifications: Advanced skills in staff management, budgeting, and customer service, as well as relevant certifications, can increase earning potential.
- Location Within Buffalo: Certain neighborhoods or districts with higher living costs or busier dining scenes may offer better pay.
- Size and Revenue of the Restaurant: Larger establishments or those with higher sales volumes usually have bigger budgets to compensate management accordingly.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Buffalo, NY
Pursuing a career as a Restaurant Manager involves several important steps and educational paths:
- Gain Relevant Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Erie Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Buffalo State College offer solid foundations in culinary skills and hospitality operations.
- Obtain Professional Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification and New York State Alcohol Training Awareness Program (ATAP) are valuable and often required for restaurant managers, particularly those responsible for food safety and alcohol service.
- Develop Practical Experience: Many Restaurant Managers work their way up from entry-level positions such as servers or assistant managers to build management skills and industry knowledge.
- Enhance Leadership Skills: Effective communication, problem-solving, and team management skills are essential to succeed in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Buffalo, NY
The following well-known establishments are key employers of Restaurant Managers in the Buffalo area:
- Denny's
- LongHorn Steakhouse
- Specialty Restaurants
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Buffalo, NY Work At
Restaurant Managers in Buffalo are employed across a range of establishment types:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have moderate pay but steady opportunities due to high turnover and larger staff sizes.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Tend to offer higher salaries reflecting the more complex management requirements and upscale clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: These may offer fewer management roles but can provide valuable experience and competitive pay in some cases.
- Hotel Restaurants and Catering Operations: Larger operations within these venues usually provide higher salaries and additional benefits.
The variety of venues means that salary can vary widely depending on the prestige, size, and service style of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo, NY for Restaurant Managers
If you're interested in careers similar to Restaurant Manager, consider exploring related roles within the hospitality industry.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager—roles sharing many overlapping responsibilities and management skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Buffalo, NY
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is vital for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For detailed information on federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Buffalo Restaurant Managers can find state-specific labor law resources at the New York State Department of Labor website.