Servers’ earnings vary widely depending on the restaurant type, location and tipping culture.
While the average hourly wage for Servers in the U.S. is about $17.05 excluding tips, those working in fine dining establishments can earn significantly more thanks to higher check averages and generous gratuities.
In this guide, we highlight some of the highest-paying restaurants for Servers, along with factors that influence server income and tips.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in the US
The following restaurant brands are known for offering excellent earning opportunities for Servers, whether through higher base wages, generous tips from customers or both.
Servers looking to work at high-earning restaurants can also explore hospitality job platforms like OysterLink, where restaurants post openings and candidates can browse service industry roles.
1. Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille
[Source: Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille]
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille is renowned for its upscale dining experience, where Servers can earn impressive tips thanks to the restaurant's high average check size.
With locations in cities like Denver, Chicago, Miami and Nashville, Perry’s remains a top choice for diners.
This is thanks to its commitment to quality selection and outstanding service that reflects its roots as a neighborhood butcher shop.
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille interior | Source: Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille’s Facebook page
See all Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille locations in the U.S.
2. California Pizza Kitchen
[Source: California Pizza Kitchen]
Known for its casual yet quality dining, California Pizza Kitchen offers Servers competitive wages and a steady flow of customers.
The restaurant's popularity contributes to a high volume of sales, which in turn enhances tip potential for its staff.
See all California Pizza Kitchen locations in the U.S.
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3. The Cheesecake Factory
[Source: The Cheesecake Factory]
With its extensive menu and lively vibe, The Cheesecake Factory attracts a diverse crowd. Here, Servers benefit from a diverse clientele, leading to consistent earnings from both hourly wages and tips.
The Cheesecake Factory in Gainesville, FL | Source: The Cheesecake Factory
See all The Cheesecake Factory locations in the U.S.
4. Outback Steakhouse
[Source: Outback Steakhouse]
Outback Steakhouse combines a casual dining experience with a loyal customer base.
Servers here often report good earnings, especially during peak dining hours when tips are more likely to come more frequently and in higher quantities.
See Outback Steakhouse locations in the U.S.
5. Sullivan’s Steakhouse
[Source: Sullivan’s Steakhouse]
Sullivan’s Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience that attracts affluent diners.
Servers can earn significant income through both their hourly wages and tips, particularly during busy evenings and special events.
See Sullivan Steakhouse locations in the U.S.
Best-Paying Restaurants for Servers in New York City
The Big Apple offers numerous opportunities for Servers aiming to boost their income.
With its lively dining scene and plenty of local and tourist clientele willing to spend, many NYC restaurants provide competitive wages and substantial tips.
Take a look at the top five choices.
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1. Marea
[Source: Marea]
Marea is a high-end Italian seafood restaurant where Servers have the opportunity to earn over $100,000 per year through a combination of base pay and tips.
Its reputation for exquisite dining attracts wealthy patrons willing to spend generously.
Marea NYC staff | Source: Marea’s Facebook page
- Address: 240 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019
2. Scarpetta
[Source: Scarpetta]
Scarpetta is known for its modern Italian cuisine and lively atmosphere. Servers here enjoy high earnings due to the restaurant's popularity and the affluent clientele it attracts.
In addition to the NYC location, Scarpetta has branches in the Hamptons, Philadelphia, Las Vegas, Rome, London, Tokyo and Doha.
- Address: 88 Madison Avenue (The James Hotel Nomad), New York, NY 10016
3. The River Café
[Source: The River Café]
With breathtaking views of Manhattan, The River Café is a go-to for those willing to splurge on a scenic, fine dining experience in Brooklyn.
This then results in generous tips for Servers, especially during holidays and whenever guests are celebrating a special occasion.
View of the Brooklyn Bridge from The River Café | Source: The River Café’s Facebook page
- Address: 1 Water Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
4. Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House
[Source: Wagyu Shabu Mikiya]
At Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House, the focus on premium Wagyu beef attracts food lovers ready to spend a little extra.
This, of course, often leads to higher tips for attentive Servers who are able to make the dining experience truly worthwhile.
- Address: 954 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 1002
5. Shota Omakase
[Source: Shota Omakase]
Shota Omakase provides an intimate dining experience with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Servers at this establishment benefit from the high price point of meals, leading to lucrative tipping opportunities.
- Address: 50 South 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Miami Restaurants Where Servers Can Earn a Lot
Miami boasts a range of restaurants where Servers can score a solid paycheck. These restaurants not only provide competitive pay but also attract clientele willing to tip generously.
Moreover, given that Florida residents don't pay individual income tax, Servers working in Miami get to keep a significant portion of their hard-earned money.
Now, let’s explore the top five picks.
1. Sexy Fish Miami
[Source: Sexy Fish]
Sexy Fish Miami is a trendy restaurant that combines an extravagant atmosphere with exquisite cuisine.
Servers here can earn substantial wages thanks to high-ticket sales and generous tipping from patrons enjoying the lavish experience.
Platforms like OysterLink can help Servers discover openings at these types of restaurants and connect with employers hiring front-of-house staff. You can browse current Server openings to find opportunities at restaurants known for higher tip potential.
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