Restaurant Manager Salary in Cincinnati, OH
Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $32.11 per hour, which translates to about $1,284.40 per week, $5,565.73 per month, and $66,788.80 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy employment outlook and increasing opportunities within the hospitality and food service sectors.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Cincinnati, OH?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Cincinnati varies by experience level and specific employer, as shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.10 | $884.00 | $3,822.67 | $45,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $31.92 | $1,276.80 | $5,518.40 | $66,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $46.66 | $1,866.40 | $8,066.13 | $96,796.80 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation because their role focuses on management responsibilities rather than direct service. Any bonus or additional income generally comes from performance incentives or profit-sharing instead of customer tips.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Cincinnati vs. National Average
Nationally, a Restaurant Manager earns on average around $29.23 per hour and approximately $60,798.40 annually.
In Cincinnati, Restaurant Managers earn about $32.11 per hour and $66,788.80 per year, which is slightly above the national average, likely reflecting regional economic factors and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cincinnati for Restaurant Managers
In the Cincinnati area, Restaurant Managers can expect higher pay in certain neighborhoods:
- Downtown: $34.50 per hour
- Over-the-Rhine: $33.75 per hour
These areas typically have more upscale dining establishments and higher living costs, contributing to better salary offerings for managerial roles.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Cincinnati?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Cincinnati is influenced by several critical factors:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced managers who demonstrate strong leadership and operational skills tend to negotiate higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants, hotels, or busy urban locations generally pays more than smaller or casual dining venues.
- Educational Background: Formal training or degrees in Hospitality or Business Management can boost earning potential.
- Certifications: Food safety and management certifications may also impact pay scales.
- Management Scope: Managers overseeing multiple locations or larger teams often earn more due to increased responsibilities.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Cincinnati
To pursue a career as a Restaurant Manager in Cincinnati, aspiring professionals should consider the following:
- Education: Enroll in hospitality management programs such as the Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Hospitality Management Program or the University of Cincinnati's Carl H. Lindner College of Business, both offering relevant degrees focused on Restaurant Management and Hospitality.
- Certifications: Obtain crucial certifications like the ServSafe Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential ensuring knowledge of food safety protocols, and the Ohio Manager Certification in Food Protection, which is mandatory in the state for restaurant managers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level restaurant roles and progressing through supervisory positions builds valuable management skills.
- Networking and Continuing Education: Staying updated with industry trends and building connections through local hospitality associations can provide career growth opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati
Cincinnati's dynamic restaurant scene features well-known employers actively seeking Restaurant Managers:
- The Capital Grille
- 21c Museum Hotels
- Skyline Chili
- Raising Cane's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati Work At
Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati typically work across a wide range of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These moderately priced restaurants often offer consistent hours and steady salaries but may have lower earnings compared to fine dining.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Managers at fast casual restaurants are in high demand and may earn competitive pay due to fast-paced environments and high volume.
- Fine Dining: Upscale establishments generally provide higher wages and bonuses reflecting the complexity and expectations in service quality.
- Hotels and Resorts: Management roles in hotel restaurants may offer benefits and higher compensation due to the integrated hospitality setting.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on a Restaurant Manager’s salary, with larger, busier, and more prestigious venues typically paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cincinnati for Restaurant Managers
Professionals interested in the Restaurant Manager role might also consider related careers in hospitality management and restaurant operations.
These include Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager positions, which share overlapping managerial responsibilities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Cincinnati
Restaurant Managers should understand their labor rights and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Ohio-specific employment laws and resources can be accessed through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
- The City of Cincinnati official website offers localized information on labor laws and permits.