Restaurant Manager Salary in Nashville, TN
Restaurant Managers in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $29.52 per hour, which translates to about $1,180.80 per week, $5,116.80 per month, and $61,401.60 per year.
The demand for Restaurant Managers in Nashville is growing at a healthy rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Restaurant Manager Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Restaurant Manager in Nashville varies based on experience level and the type of establishment. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $22.52 | $900.80 | $3,902.93 | $46,835.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $29.52 | $1,180.80 | $5,116.80 | $61,401.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.70 | $1,548.00 | $6,682.00 | $80,496.00 |
Do Restaurant Managers in Nashville Earn Tips?
Restaurant Managers generally do not earn tips as part of their compensation. Their income is mostly based on salary or hourly wages, though some managers in more upscale or busy establishments may receive performance bonuses or other incentives instead.
Restaurant Manager Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Restaurant Managers earn an average of approximately $29.52 per hour, or about $61,401.60 annually. The figures for Nashville match this national average closely, indicating that the city offers competitive wages in line with the broader United States market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Restaurant Managers
Some areas near Nashville offer slightly higher pay for Restaurant Managers, including:
- Downtown: $30.00 per hour
- Germantown: $31.00 per hour
Working in these districts could provide Restaurant Managers with higher compensation due to higher demand and potentially more upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Restaurant Manager’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors can influence how much a Restaurant Manager earns in Nashville:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced managers with strong leadership and operational skills can command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and large chains often offer better pay than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Size of the Restaurant: Managing a larger venue with more staff and higher volume can increase earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Managers with certifications like ServSafe or advanced culinary and management training tend to have an edge.
- Performance and Bonuses: Exceptional performance may be rewarded with bonuses or profit-sharing opportunities.
How To Become a Restaurant Manager in Nashville
Becoming a Restaurant Manager in Nashville involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience.
Some educational pathways include programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training including restaurant management courses. Also valuable is the Art Institute of Tennessee – Nashville, providing a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management that blends culinary skills with business management.
Certifications can be essential for career advancement and credibility. Important ones include the ServSafe Manager Certification, a nationally recognized credential focused on food safety, and the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit, required for managers overseeing alcohol service in Tennessee.
Gaining practical experience by working in various roles within restaurants helps build the skills necessary to manage staff, handle operations, and ensure excellent customer service.
Top Employers Hiring Restaurant Managers in Nashville
Nashville hosts numerous employers actively seeking qualified Restaurant Managers, including:
- Chili's
- Pelato
- Twenty First
Establishments That Restaurant Managers in Nashville Work At
Restaurant Managers in Nashville can be employed in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining: These venues offer a relaxed atmosphere and often require managers to multitask and oversee daily operations closely.
- Fast Casual: Managers in this setting focus on efficient service and often handle high customer turnover.
- Fine Dining: These restaurants emphasize exceptional service and atmosphere; managers here generally earn more due to the complexity and expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Managers might oversee multiple food and beverage outlets, increasing responsibility and pay.
Each type of establishment affects salary levels, with upscale and larger venues tending to offer higher compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Restaurant Managers
Those interested in a career path related to Restaurant Management may explore nearby roles such as:
This includes roles such as Assistant Restaurant Manager, Bar Manager, and Food and Beverage Manager, which involve related responsibilities and similar skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Restaurant Managers in Nashville
Understanding local and federal labor laws is essential for Restaurant Managers to ensure compliance and manage their employment rights effectively.
- Consult the official State of Tennessee website for detailed information on labor laws, wage regulations, and employment standards.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor’s website is an authoritative resource.