The typical Baker in Tulsa earns around $16 per hour, which is slightly above the state average but below what you might see in bigger metropolitan areas. Of course, top-paying bakeries and restaurants offer higher earning potential for experienced Bakers, particularly those with specialized skills or who are willing to take on more responsibility.
In this guide, we’ll highlight which restaurants and bakeries in Tulsa offer the best pay for Bakers and explore the key factors that drive earnings in this field. Whether you’re a seasoned Baker or just getting started, we’ll discuss the most lucrative workplaces, the impact of business type on wages and what you can do to land a high-paying Baker job in Tulsa.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Tulsa
Tulsa’s bakery scene continues to flourish with a mix of artisanal bakeries, established franchises and upscale cafés that value talented Bakers. These venues are known for above-average pay, opportunities for creative expression and strong reputations with both locals and tourists.
Here are some of the top-paying bakeries and restaurants where Bakers in Tulsa can grow their careers and maximize their earnings:
Antoinette Baking Co.
Antoinette Baking Co. is a beloved local bakery situated in Tulsa’s historic Arts District, celebrated for its creative cakes, macarons and Instagram-worthy pastries. Bakers here enjoy both a friendly environment and chances to hone their pastry skills, often earning above Tulsa’s average rates thanks to the bakery’s popularity and custom order business.
La Madeleine French Bakery & Café
Famous for its classic French breads, tarts and Viennoiserie, La Madeleine rewards Bakers with experience in European baking techniques. This well-established chain offers solid base pay, strong benefits and clear advancement paths for dedicated Bakers.
Panera Bread
As one of the largest bakery-café chains in the country, Panera Bread in Tulsa ensures competitive compensation and consistent hours for its Bakers. Team members often receive health benefits, paid training and performance incentives, which help boost overall earnings.
Farrell Bread & Bar
Farrell Bread & Bar is a local gem known for its traditional breads, hand-shaped pastries and artisan quality. Bakers here have access to high-quality ingredients and can specialize in sourdoughs, focaccia and seasonal specialties, often fueling higher tips and more public recognition.
Queenies Plus
A staple in Tulsa for over three decades, Queenies Plus offers an eclectic menu of pastries and cakes made from scratch daily. Their Bakers benefit from steady shifts, community acclaim and above-average hourly pay for those with decorating and bread skills.
Glacier Confection
Though best known for gourmet chocolates, Glacier Confection also creates luxe baked goods. Bakers get the chance to experiment with recipes, while being compensated well for specialty and high-volume production during busy seasons.
La Roma Bakery
A go-to spot for Tulsa locals seeking traditional Mediterranean breads and pastries, La Roma Bakery rewards expert Bakers—especially those who can master unique breads like pita and baklava — with competitive wages and tip opportunities during busy holiday periods.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings
Not all bakeries and restaurants compensate Bakers equally. Compensation depends on the type of venue, its clientele and the complexity of its menu.
- Upscale bakeries and patisseries (like Antoinette or boutique cake shops) typically pay more, especially for Bakers with advanced pastry or cake decorating skills.
- Chain restaurants (e.g., Panera Bread or La Madeleine) offer stability, steady hours and benefits, though pay may be more standardized.
- Neighborhood or ethnic bakeries (such as La Roma Bakery) can offer higher earnings during peak holiday seasons or for those who possess unique specialty baking skills.
Some bakeries also offer additional compensation through tips, overtime or bonuses for handling large, special orders. Certifications in food safety or advanced pastry techniques can open up higher pay grades or supervisory roles.
How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Tulsa
Perfect Your Resume and Portfolio
Showcase your experience, specialty skills and photographs of your work. Highlight certifications such as ServSafe or culinary school credentials for a stronger impression.
Focus on Networking
Connect with local bakeries, culinary events and industry professionals. Personal recommendations often help you land interviews or unlock hidden job opportunities.
Target the Right Establishments
Research bakeries and cafés with a reputation for quality and employee satisfaction. Visit in person, ask about current openings and leave your resume directly with a manager.
Prepare for Interviews
Be ready to discuss your techniques, strengths and creativity. Some bakeries may ask for a practical baking test, so practice your specialty items in advance.
Apply Online & Offline
Use local job boards, industry websites and company career pages. However, many high-paying bakery and restaurant jobs are filled through word-of-mouth, so don’t underestimate the power of community connections.
What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Tulsa in 2025 and Beyond?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Bakers nationwide is projected to grow by 4% through 2032, with steady demand in cities like Tulsa as the interest in artisan breads and pastries continues. The ongoing popularity of small-batch bakeries and growth in the city’s culinary sector suggest that there will be consistent job openings for skilled Bakers.
The emergence of specialty dietary trends — such as gluten-free, keto and vegan baked goods — could drive further demand for Bakers who can adapt to new recipes and trends. Additionally, Tulsa’s relatively low cost of living means more restaurants and bakeries are opening or expanding, strengthening the outlook even further.
Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Tulsa?
With an average hourly wage of $16, most Bakers in Tulsa bring in around $33,000–$38,000 annually, assuming full-time hours and some overtime or tips. While this is less than in major cities, Tulsa’s cost of living makes it far more manageable to live well.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center): $950–$1,150/month
- Utilities: $120–$150/month
- Groceries (solo adult): $350–$500/month
- Transportation (gas/bus): $60–$120/month
With good budgeting, most Bakers in Tulsa can cover essentials, enjoy occasional dining out and save for the future. Those who land roles in high-paying venues or take on extra responsibilities may earn significantly more and enjoy even greater financial stability.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tulsa Baker Jobs
We selected these bakeries and restaurants based on a combination of hourly pay rates, staff reviews, opportunities for growth and overall workplace reputation within Tulsa’s culinary community.
- Competitive Pay: All establishments mentioned are known to offer above-average hourly wages or strong incentive programs for Bakers.
- Positive Work Environment: These venues emphasize staff well-being, leadership training and advancement opportunities.
- Strong Community Reputation: Locations with high public ratings and robust customer demand translate directly to better earning potential for skilled Bakers.
By focusing on these elements, we identified Tulsa’s best workplaces for Bakers looking to maximize their income and workplace satisfaction.