Build a Professional Server Resume

Create a strong resume that highlights your restaurant experience, customer service skills, and any achievements in the food service industry. Emphasize prior roles in dining (e.g. host/hostess, busser, bartender, or server positions) and list your work history in reverse chronological order.

 Mention reputable restaurants or hotels you’ve worked for, and include quantifiable accomplishments if possible (for example, “Maintained a 95% positive customer feedback score” or “Handled up to 15 tables per shift during peak hours”). 

Include any relevant education or certifications – while formal education isn’t mandatory for serving jobs, courses in hospitality or food safety (such as a food handler’s certification or alcohol service training) can make you stand out. 

Tailor your resume for each server job posting by using keywords from the job description – for instance, if a listing seeks experience with fine dining or banquet service, make sure to highlight your background in those areas. 

Use clear section headings and bullet points for readability, and don’t forget to mention any awards or recognitions (for example, “Employee of the Month” at a previous restaurant). 

A polished, targeted resume demonstrates professionalism and can help you stand out among other candidates for server jobs in Miami.

Gain Restaurant Experience

Practical experience in the food service industry is crucial for landing a good server position. Many Miami servers start in entry-level hospitality jobs and work their way up. 

If you’re new to serving, consider starting as a host/hostess, food runner, or barback to learn the basics of restaurant operations and customer service. 

These roles build a foundation in multitasking and familiarity with how a dining room operates during busy periods. From there, seek opportunities to become a server or a cocktail waiter/waitress – you might begin in a casual eatery or café and then move into more upscale venues as you gain confidence. 

Each step up teaches you how to manage more tables, provide better service, and handle challenges (like dealing with customer complaints or large parties), which are key skills for a successful food server. 

You can also gain experience by taking on extra responsibilities at your current job: for example, volunteer to train new hires, handle opening or closing duties, or assist with private events. 

In Miami’s competitive restaurant scene, some high-end establishments prefer to promote from within – for instance, a busser at a fine dining restaurant may get promoted to a Server after proving reliability. 

Show progression on your résumé from entry-level roles to positions of greater responsibility, and highlight any accomplishments (such as helping to open a new restaurant location or consistently exceeding sales targets through effective upselling). 

This progression proves to hiring managers that you understand restaurant service from the ground up and are ready to excel as a server.

Search on Hospitality Job Boards

Use specialized hospitality and restaurant job platforms to find server jobs in Miami. In particular, our OysterLink jobs portal lists many local server openings. 

You can filter searches by location (“Miami, FL” or specific neighborhoods like Miami Beach) and job title (Server, Waiter/Waitress, Cocktail Server, etc.) to narrow the results. 

Set up email alerts or notifications for new postings – for example, get notified of “server jobs hiring near me” – so you’ll know as soon as a restaurant is hiring and can be among the first to apply. 

You might also spot local openings by searching for “servers hiring near me” on community boards or social media, as smaller eateries sometimes advertise that way. 

Be persistent: check for new server jobs in Miami daily and apply promptly, as popular Miami restaurants often receive many applications. Most job boards also let you filter by recency – for example, you could view only “restaurant server jobs near me in the last 3 days” to catch newly posted openings – ensuring you apply while the opportunity is fresh. 

When applying, follow the instructions carefully – some may require completing an online application on the company’s website, while others might ask you to email your resume and a short cover letter. 

It also helps to diversify your search terms; beyond just “server jobs Miami,” try variations such as “restaurant server Miami jobs,” “serving jobs near me,” or “server jobs near me” to find a variety of opportunities.

Networking (next step) is another key method for finding openings that might not be advertised. By using hospitality-specific resources and broad search terms (even searching “fine dining server jobs near me” if you aim for upscale restaurants), you’ll tap into the most relevant job listings and increase your chances of landing interviews.

Network in the Hospitality Industry

Building relationships is crucial in Miami’s tight-knit restaurant community. Many hiring opportunities for servers come through word of mouth or internal referrals. 

Attend local hospitality industry events, job fairs, or restaurant openings – organizations like the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) or local culinary schools sometimes host networking events. 

Join professional groups on social media (for example, Facebook or LinkedIn groups for Miami hospitality workers). Introduce yourself to people who work in restaurants, bars, or hotels; let them know you’re looking for a serving position and politely ask if they know of any openings. 

Often a personal referral or a recommendation from an employee can get you an interview for server positions that aren’t posted publicly. You can also network by reaching out to former colleagues or mentors who have connections in Miami’s restaurant scene – people who can vouch for your work ethic. 

Consider doing informational interviews: request a short meeting or coffee with a restaurant manager or experienced server to learn about their establishment and what they look for in staff (do this respectfully and not just to ask for a job, but to build a connection). 

Additionally, attending wine tastings, mixology workshops, or hospitality seminars in Miami can expand your network and improve your skills – for example, a server with knowledge of local craft beers or Latin American cuisine might impress a hiring manager. 

Keep your OysterLink profile or LinkedIn profile up to date, highlighting your experience and that you’re seeking server jobs in Miami FL. Networking can give you an edge beyond simply filling out applications – a good word from someone in the industry might land you one of the best paying server jobs before it’s even advertised.

Prepare for Server Interviews

Once you start getting interview calls, invest time in preparation. Server interviews in the restaurant industry often focus on your customer service approach, ability to handle pressure, and knowledge of food and beverages. 

Be ready to answer common interview questions such as: “How would you handle a situation where a customer sends back their meal?”, “Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer and how you resolved it,” or “How do you manage handling multiple tables during a rush?”. 

Research each restaurant or venue beforehand so you can align your answers with their style and clientele – for instance, if it’s a fine dining restaurant, emphasize your knowledge of upscale service etiquette and wine pairing; if it’s a busy South Beach café, discuss your ability to turn tables quickly while being friendly to tourists. 

Prepare concrete examples that demonstrate your skills: perhaps how you memorized a large menu, upsold specials to increase check averages, or calmly handled a mix-up with an order. 

It’s also wise to brush up on key points relevant to serving in Miami – for example, familiarity with Latin American cuisines or basic Spanish phrases can be a plus, given the diverse customer base. 

During the interview (or any required trial shift), show enthusiasm for the restaurant and the Miami location – establishments value servers who understand the local culture, whether it’s the importance of Miami Spice season, Art Basel events, or the late-night dining scene. 

Have a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, such as “What qualities do your most successful servers have?” or “What is the team culture like here during peak season?”. 

Finally, dress neatly (business-casual attire or a polished version of a server uniform) and be punctual. First impressions matter in hospitality. With solid preparation and a positive attitude, you’ll convey the reliability and customer-focus expected from a Miami server, increasing your chances of getting hired.

South Beach / Miami Beach

This world-famous beach area is home to one of the highest concentrations of restaurants and bars in South Florida. In the South Beach neighborhood (part of Miami Beach), you’ll find everything from chic oceanfront restaurants and hotel dining rooms to vibrant nightclubs that hire cocktail servers. 

Server jobs here often involve working with tourists from all over the world, so the pace can be fast and the atmosphere energetic. For example, as a Server in South Beach, you might be managing sections in a busy Collins Avenue restaurant during Miami’s high tourist season, handling large groups and VIP customers. 

The earning potential can be high – South Beach establishments often have premium prices, meaning tips can be very generous, especially at fine dining spots or popular clubs. 

However, expect competition for these roles; high-profile venues look for experienced staff who can deliver top-notch service even on a packed Saturday night. 

Many restaurants in this area also operate late hours, so being open to night and weekend shifts is important. If you thrive in a dynamic, glamorous environment and enjoy serving an international crowd, the Miami Beach area (including South Beach) is an ideal place to search for server positions. 

Plus, working in a famous tourist district can be a great résumé booster, showcasing that you’ve succeeded in a high-volume, high-stakes setting.

Downtown Miami & Brickell

Downtown Miami and the adjacent Brickell neighborhood form the city’s urban core, with a mix of business districts and upscale residential areas. Here you’ll find a growing number of trendy restaurants, rooftop bars, and hotel lounges catering to professionals, tourists, and locals alike. 

Server jobs in the Downtown/Brickell area may involve a blend of weekday business-lunch service and lively after-work or weekend crowds. For instance, a Restaurant Server in Brickell might spend lunch hour serving financial district employees and evenings hosting young professionals at a chic gastropub or cocktail bar. 

The clientele in this area expects efficient, polished service – especially in high-end restaurants and bars located in Brickell’s luxury high-rises. As a server, you’ll need to be knowledgeable about craft cocktails, global cuisines, or wine pairings depending on the venue. 

The pace can be busy, but unlike the tourist-centric South Beach, Downtown Miami also has a steady flow of regular local patrons. If you prefer a cosmopolitan city vibe and the opportunity to build a base of repeat customers (e.g., businesspeople who frequent your restaurant), focus your job hunt on downtown Miami server jobs. 

Additionally, Brickell’s many hotels and rooftop lounges mean there are opportunities for cocktail servers and poolside servers in upscale settings, often with automatic service charges added for large parties or bottle service, which can enhance your tips.

Wynwood & Midtown Miami

Just north of downtown, the Wynwood Arts District and Midtown Miami have emerged as popular spots, especially among younger locals and tourists seeking a hip experience. 

Wynwood is known for its art murals, galleries, and a plethora of craft breweries, trendy eateries, and fusion restaurants. Meanwhile, Midtown (and the nearby Design District) features upscale dining and high-end retail. 

Server jobs in Wynwood might involve working at a cutting-edge restaurant with a rotating menu or a busy brewery that also serves food. The atmosphere here is creative and lively – a Server in Wynwood might find themselves explaining an art-inspired cocktail or the story behind a local microbrew. 

Tips can be good, especially on weekends when bar-hopping crowds fill the area, but keep in mind some establishments are smaller or casual, which might mean slightly lower check averages than the luxury spots in South Beach or Brickell. 

In the Design District and Midtown, you could land a serving job at a fine dining restaurant frequented by shoppers and celebrities, where knowledge of gourmet cuisine and high service standards is key. 

These areas are ideal if you enjoy a trendy, contemporary scene. Working as a server in Midtown or Wynwood often means being part of what’s new and exciting in Miami’s culinary landscape, and it can be a stepping stone to jobs at more established venues as your experience grows.

Coral Gables & Coconut Grove

Away from the beach and downtown hustle, Coral Gables and Coconut Grove offer a slightly more laid-back but still upscale dining scene. 

Coral Gables, home to the famous Miracle Mile and many international consulates, boasts fine restaurants, old-world cafés, and popular brunch spots that cater to professionals and families. 

A Server job in Coral Gables might mean working at a high-end restaurant where many patrons are regulars from the neighborhood or university staff/students (University of Miami is nearby). 

Here, providing personalized, attentive service and remembering returning customers’ favorites can earn you loyal clientele and steady tips. Coconut Grove, on the other hand, has a bohemian, historic charm with many open-air eateries, waterfront restaurants, and boutique cafes. 

Serving in “The Grove” might involve afternoon shifts in a tropical café or busy nights at a bar with live music. The pace in these areas is comfortable – somewhere between the intensity of South Beach and the intimacy of a small town. 

If you value a community vibe and a slightly more predictable routine while still making solid tips, searching for server jobs in Coral Gables or Coconut Grove is a great option.

These neighborhoods also tend to have some of the best brunch server opportunities (think Sunday brunch spots), and they can offer a better work-life balance with many restaurants closing a bit earlier at night compared to the beach districts.

Other Notable South Florida Areas

Beyond the major hubs above, there are additional locales to consider. 

Just north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale and its suburbs have a thriving restaurant and bar scene – if you’re open to a short commute or reside in Broward County, you’ll find plenty of server jobs hiring near you there, especially in areas like Las Olas Boulevard or around the Fort Lauderdale beach strip. 

Similarly, the Palm Beach area (an hour or so north) hosts high-end restaurants and country clubs that often seek experienced servers (particularly during the winter season when tourist and “snowbird” traffic peaks). 

Back in the Miami area, neighborhoods like Little Havana (with its Cuban restaurants and ventanitas), Miami Lakes, or Key Biscayne have more localized dining scenes where bilingual servers are in high demand. 

Also, don’t forget Miami’s airports and cruise port – while not traditional “restaurants,” they have many hospitality venues (airport lounges, cruise terminal cafés) that hire food servers. 

Lastly, if you’re open to stepping outside the typical city environment, consider opportunities in the broader South Florida region, such as resort towns in the Florida Keys which often need servers (especially during tourist season), or even cruise line jobs on ships departing from Miami (more on that below). 

In summary, while many job seekers simply search for “server jobs in Miami,” narrowing or expanding your search by neighborhood or nearby cities can uncover additional opportunities with great pay and experience.

Full-Service Restaurants (Casual to Fine Dining)

The most common workplaces for servers are restaurants themselves. In Miami, this includes a broad spectrum from casual diners and chain restaurants to high-end, celebrity-chef establishments. 

As a restaurant server, your duties will generally include taking orders, serving food and drinks, explaining menu items, and ensuring guests have a great dining experience. 

In a casual or family-style restaurant, a server might handle many tables and turn them quickly, focusing on friendly service and efficiency. 

In contrast, at a fine dining restaurant (for example, an upscale steakhouse in Brickell or a gourmet sushi bar in Miami Beach), the server’s role is more specialized: you might work in teams with bussers and food runners, follow formal service protocols (like crumbing the table or presenting wine), and maintain deep menu knowledge including wine pairings or sourcing of ingredients. 

Fine dining or food server jobs in luxury settings tend to be the best paying server jobs due to the combination of higher check averages and generous tips. In fact, some Miami fine dining restaurants automatically add an 18–20% service charge (sometimes called a Miami service charge) to each bill, which is shared among the staff. 

Whether you’re looking at a bustling Cuban restaurant in Little Havana or a posh rooftop venue downtown, working in full-service restaurants will be the core path for most servers. 

Many servers choose to start in casual eateries and move up to fine dining as they gain experience, since landing a food server job at a high-end establishment can significantly boost your income and résumé.

Hotels and Resorts

With Miami being a top tourist destination, hotels and resorts are significant employers of servers. These establishments often have multiple outlets – from lobby cafés and breakfast buffets to poolside bars and upscale hotel restaurants. 

As a hotel server or resort server, you might work in roles like a Breakfast Server (handling the morning shift at a hotel restaurant or serving the breakfast buffet), a pool/beach server bringing cocktails and snacks to guests, or a room service attendant delivering orders to rooms. 

Hotel server jobs can be quite different from standalone restaurant jobs: for instance, you might charge orders to guest rooms, deal with international tourists daily, or coordinate with event banquets (serving hors d’oeuvres at a conference or wedding). 

The pace can range from steady (morning breakfast rushes that slow by afternoon) to very fast during conventions or holiday seasons. One advantage of hotel server jobs in Miami is that many hotels add a service charge or automatic gratuity for large parties and banquets, which helps ensure you receive a consistent tip distribution for big events. 

Also, hotels often provide benefits that independent restaurants might not, like health insurance, employee meal discounts, or even housing stipends in some resort jobs. 

There’s also room for advancement into supervisory roles (like restaurant captain or room service manager) within hotel food & beverage departments. 

If you enjoy a structured environment and the chance to serve in different settings (restaurant, bar, banquet hall all under one roof), consider looking into server jobs Miami in the hotel and resort sector – places like the beachside resorts in Miami Beach or business hotels in Downtown frequently hire for these positions.

Bars, Nightclubs, and Lounges

Apart from eateries, Miami’s famous nightlife creates numerous server opportunities in bars, clubs, and lounges. These roles often have titles like Cocktail Server or Bottle Service Waitress/Waiter, focusing on serving drinks (and sometimes food) in a party atmosphere. 

For example, a cocktail server in a Miami Beach nightclub might manage a VIP table, taking orders for bottle service (champagne, liquor bottles with mixers) and ensuring those high-spending guests have a great time. 

The pace in nightclubs and busy bars is intense – loud music, packed venues, and a need to be quick and accurate with orders (often using handheld POS systems while on the go). 

The earning potential, however, can be significant: clubs often include automatic gratuities on expensive bottle service tabs, and generous tips from guests celebrating big occasions are common. 

There are also more low-key lounge server positions, like in hotel bars or jazz lounges, which require a mix of drink knowledge and fine hospitality skills. 

Keep in mind that these jobs typically involve late-night hours (shifts that start in the evening and go into the early morning), so your sleep schedule might differ from the typical 9-to-5 crowd. 

If you’re energetic, personable, and don’t mind the nightclub scene, pursuing server positions in Miami’s nightlife can be very rewarding. Many in the industry consider these among the best paying server jobs if you excel at upselling drinks and catering to an affluent crowd. Just remember that a polished appearance and knowledge of mixology basics will likely be expected.

Banquets, Catering & Events

Another slice of the hospitality industry where servers are in demand is event catering and banquets. Miami hosts countless events – from weddings and quinceañeras to corporate conferences and Art Basel parties – which means there’s a need for Banquet Servers and catering staff. 

Banquet server jobs can be with large hotels that have banquet halls, with convention centers, or with dedicated catering companies that service off-site venues. 

The nature of serving at events is a bit different than in restaurants: you might be carrying large trays of plated meals to dozens of guests, working as part of a big team of servers under a banquet captain’s direction. 

Service is often orchestrated in courses (salad, entrée, dessert, etc.) and done very efficiently to serve everyone in a timely manner. These jobs can be on-call or part-time – for instance, you might pick up banquet serving shifts on weekends or for special events (great if you’re looking for server jobs near me part time to supplement income). 

While banquet shifts can be hard work physically, they often include a fixed service charge gratuity that is split among the team, which can lead to decent earnings. Plus, you get exposure to Miami’s event scene and can network with catering managers or event planners for future opportunities. 

Some servers specialize in banquets and enjoy the variety of functions they work (one day a luxury wedding at a Miami Beach hotel, another day a yacht party catering gig). 

If you enjoy teamwork and don’t mind a break from the routine of a regular restaurant schedule, looking into banquet server jobs in Miami is a smart move – especially around peak event seasons (winter and spring in South Florida).

Other Venues (Cruise Ships, Country Clubs, etc.)

Beyond traditional restaurants, there are other venues where serving skills are highly valued. Miami’s cruise ship industry is massive – cruise lines departing from PortMiami hire food and beverage staff, and roles similar to servers exist on ships (often called dining room stewards or buffet attendants). 

Working on a cruise ship as a server means living aboard for months at a time and serving guests in dining rooms or specialty restaurants on the ship. 

It’s a unique opportunity to travel while working, and usually room and board are provided, allowing you to save much of your earnings (though the work is rigorous and schedules are 7-day weeks while at sea). 

Another venue type is private clubs or country clubs in the Miami area. Exclusive yacht clubs, golf clubs, and membership-only establishments in areas like Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, or Palm Beach hire servers to cater to their members. 

These server jobs can be more low-key and personalized, as you often learn members’ names and preferences. They can also be lucrative, since members might be affluent and generous with tips, and some clubs charge service fees that benefit the staff. 

Additionally, opportunities like live-in server/innkeeper roles (more common in resorts or B&Bs outside the city) or food service in corporate settings (like cafeterias in large offices or hospitals) are options if you prefer a more daytime, routine schedule. 

In essence, being a server in Miami can open doors to a variety of workplaces: not just restaurants, but anywhere food or drink is served to the public. 

Think about what environment suits you best – if you love travel, consider a cruise ship; if you prefer a close-knit community, maybe a country club; if you crave excitement, the nightlife or event circuit might be your calling.

Full-Service Restaurants (Casual to Fine Dining)

The most common workplaces for servers are restaurants themselves. In Miami, this includes a broad spectrum from casual diners and chain restaurants to high-end, celebrity-chef establishments. 

As a restaurant server, your duties will generally include taking orders, serving food and drinks, explaining menu items, and ensuring guests have a great dining experience. 

In a casual or family-style restaurant, a server might handle many tables and turn them quickly, focusing on friendly service and efficiency. 

In contrast, at a fine dining restaurant (for example, an upscale steakhouse in Brickell or a gourmet sushi bar in Miami Beach), the server’s role is more specialized: you might work in teams with bussers and food runners, follow formal service protocols (like crumbing the table or presenting wine), and maintain deep menu knowledge including wine pairings or sourcing of ingredients. 

Fine dining or food server jobs in luxury settings tend to be the best paying server jobs due to the combination of higher check averages and generous tips. In fact, some Miami fine dining restaurants automatically add an 18–20% service charge (sometimes called a Miami service charge) to each bill, which is shared among the staff. 

Whether you’re looking at a bustling Cuban restaurant in Little Havana or a posh rooftop venue downtown, working in full-service restaurants will be the core path for most servers. 

Many servers choose to start in casual eateries and move up to fine dining as they gain experience, since landing a food server job at a high-end establishment can significantly boost your income and résumé.

Hotels and Resorts

With Miami being a top tourist destination, hotels and resorts are significant employers of servers. These establishments often have multiple outlets – from lobby cafés and breakfast buffets to poolside bars and upscale hotel restaurants. 

As a hotel server or resort server, you might work in roles like a Breakfast Server (handling the morning shift at a hotel restaurant or serving the breakfast buffet), a pool/beach server bringing cocktails and snacks to guests, or a room service attendant delivering orders to rooms. 

Hotel server jobs can be quite different from standalone restaurant jobs: for instance, you might charge orders to guest rooms, deal with international tourists daily, or coordinate with event banquets (serving hors d’oeuvres at a conference or wedding). 

The pace can range from steady (morning breakfast rushes that slow by afternoon) to very fast during conventions or holiday seasons. One advantage of hotel server jobs in Miami is that many hotels add a service charge or automatic gratuity for large parties and banquets, which helps ensure you receive a consistent tip distribution for big events. 

Also, hotels often provide benefits that independent restaurants might not, like health insurance, employee meal discounts, or even housing stipends in some resort jobs. 

There’s also room for advancement into supervisory roles (like restaurant captain or room service manager) within hotel food & beverage departments. 

If you enjoy a structured environment and the chance to serve in different settings (restaurant, bar, banquet hall all under one roof), consider looking into server jobs Miami in the hotel and resort sector – places like the beachside resorts in Miami Beach or business hotels in Downtown frequently hire for these positions.

Bars, Nightclubs, and Lounges

Apart from eateries, Miami’s famous nightlife creates numerous server opportunities in bars, clubs, and lounges. These roles often have titles like Cocktail Server or Bottle Service Waitress/Waiter, focusing on serving drinks (and sometimes food) in a party atmosphere. 

For example, a cocktail server in a Miami Beach nightclub might manage a VIP table, taking orders for bottle service (champagne, liquor bottles with mixers) and ensuring those high-spending guests have a great time. 

The pace in nightclubs and busy bars is intense – loud music, packed venues, and a need to be quick and accurate with orders (often using handheld POS systems while on the go). 

The earning potential, however, can be significant: clubs often include automatic gratuities on expensive bottle service tabs, and generous tips from guests celebrating big occasions are common. 

There are also more low-key lounge server positions, like in hotel bars or jazz lounges, which require a mix of drink knowledge and fine hospitality skills. 

Keep in mind that these jobs typically involve late-night hours (shifts that start in the evening and go into the early morning), so your sleep schedule might differ from the typical 9-to-5 crowd. 

If you’re energetic, personable, and don’t mind the nightclub scene, pursuing server positions in Miami’s nightlife can be very rewarding. Many in the industry consider these among the best paying server jobs if you excel at upselling drinks and catering to an affluent crowd. Just remember that a polished appearance and knowledge of mixology basics will likely be expected.

Banquets, Catering & Events

Another slice of the hospitality industry where servers are in demand is event catering and banquets. Miami hosts countless events – from weddings and quinceañeras to corporate conferences and Art Basel parties – which means there’s a need for Banquet Servers and catering staff. 

Banquet server jobs can be with large hotels that have banquet halls, with convention centers, or with dedicated catering companies that service off-site venues. 

The nature of serving at events is a bit different than in restaurants: you might be carrying large trays of plated meals to dozens of guests, working as part of a big team of servers under a banquet captain’s direction. 

Service is often orchestrated in courses (salad, entrée, dessert, etc.) and done very efficiently to serve everyone in a timely manner. These jobs can be on-call or part-time – for instance, you might pick up banquet serving shifts on weekends or for special events (great if you’re looking for server jobs near me part time to supplement income). 

While banquet shifts can be hard work physically, they often include a fixed service charge gratuity that is split among the team, which can lead to decent earnings. Plus, you get exposure to Miami’s event scene and can network with catering managers or event planners for future opportunities. 

Some servers specialize in banquets and enjoy the variety of functions they work (one day a luxury wedding at a Miami Beach hotel, another day a yacht party catering gig). 

If you enjoy teamwork and don’t mind a break from the routine of a regular restaurant schedule, looking into banquet server jobs in Miami is a smart move – especially around peak event seasons (winter and spring in South Florida).

Other Venues (Cruise Ships, Country Clubs, etc.)

Beyond traditional restaurants, there are other venues where serving skills are highly valued. Miami’s cruise ship industry is massive – cruise lines departing from PortMiami hire food and beverage staff, and roles similar to servers exist on ships (often called dining room stewards or buffet attendants). 

Working on a cruise ship as a server means living aboard for months at a time and serving guests in dining rooms or specialty restaurants on the ship. 

It’s a unique opportunity to travel while working, and usually room and board are provided, allowing you to save much of your earnings (though the work is rigorous and schedules are 7-day weeks while at sea). 

Another venue type is private clubs or country clubs in the Miami area. Exclusive yacht clubs, golf clubs, and membership-only establishments in areas like Coral Gables, Key Biscayne, or Palm Beach hire servers to cater to their members. 

These server jobs can be more low-key and personalized, as you often learn members’ names and preferences. They can also be lucrative, since members might be affluent and generous with tips, and some clubs charge service fees that benefit the staff. 

Additionally, opportunities like live-in server/innkeeper roles (more common in resorts or B&Bs outside the city) or food service in corporate settings (like cafeterias in large offices or hospitals) are options if you prefer a more daytime, routine schedule. 

In essence, being a server in Miami can open doors to a variety of workplaces: not just restaurants, but anywhere food or drink is served to the public. 

Think about what environment suits you best – if you love travel, consider a cruise ship; if you prefer a close-knit community, maybe a country club; if you crave excitement, the nightlife or event circuit might be your calling.