Restaurant Manager Salary in Denver, CO
Restaurant Managers in Denver, CO in 2025, earn approximately $28.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,120.00 per week, $4,853.33 per month, and $58,240.00 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Denver is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating steady opportunities for professionals in this role within the city's vibrant hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Denver, CO?
Restaurant Manager salaries in Denver vary depending on experience and specific employer demands. Below is a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.00 | $1,120.00 | $4,853.33 | $58,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.00 | $1,280.00 | $5,546.67 | $66,560.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Denver Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers typically do not earn tips as part of their compensation since their responsibilities focus on managing operations rather than direct customer service. Their income relies primarily on salary or hourly wages.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of around $31.40 per hour, which amounts to about $65,312 per year.
Compared to the national average, Restaurant Managers in Denver earn slightly less, at approximately $28.00 per hour and $58,240 annually. This difference can be attributed to local cost of living and economic factors specific to Denver's hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Restaurant Managers
Nearby areas offering competitive pay for Restaurant Managers include:
- Granby: $35.14 per hour
- Thornton: $32.69 per hour
Restaurant Managers willing to commute to Granby or Thornton may find more lucrative salary opportunities compared to Denver itself.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Denver?
Several key factors influence a Restaurant Manager’s salary in Denver:
- Experience: More years in management or hospitality often lead to higher pay rates.
- Skills and Certifications: Leadership, financial management, and certifications such as ServSafe Manager Certification can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale, fine dining restaurants generally offers higher salaries compared to casual or fast food venues.
- Size and Revenue of Restaurant: Larger establishments with high turnover often pay more competitive wages to attract skilled managers.
- Location: Proximity to central business districts or affluent neighborhoods can impact pay scales.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Denver
Becoming a successful Restaurant Manager in Denver typically involves several important steps:
- Education: Completing programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Johnson & Wales University or the Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver can provide valuable training.
- Certifications: Obtaining nationally recognized credentials like the ServSafe Manager Certification or the Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) certification can improve job prospects.
- Work Experience: Gaining experience in supervisory roles within restaurants or hospitality helps develop essential managerial skills.
- Networking: Building relationships within Denver’s food and beverage industry can lead to job opportunities and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Denver
Several major employers in Denver frequently hire Restaurant Managers, including:
- Chili's
- Wendy's
- White Lodging
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Denver Work At
Restaurant Managers in Denver find roles in a variety of establishments, each impacting salary levels differently:
- Casual Dining: These venues provide steady work and competitive pay, often with opportunities for career growth.
- Fast Casual: Typically lower paying than full-service restaurants but offer fast-paced environments and skill-building experiences.
- Fine Dining: Offers the highest earning potential due to complexity and clientele expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues may provide benefits and higher salaries for experienced managers.
The type of establishment strongly influences earning potential and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Restaurant Managers
If you are interested in roles related to Restaurant Manager, the following careers may be of interest:
These include roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel General Manager, which share responsibilities in overseeing hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Denver
Restaurant Managers should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations at various government levels:
- Visit the State of Colorado official website for state labor laws and tax info.
- Check the City and County of Denver official website for local regulations.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal standards and compliance guidelines.