The average hourly wage for Baristas in Des Plaines is around $14 per hour. However, actual earnings can vary notably depending on the establishment, tips and additional benefits offered by the employer.
If you’re curious about which restaurants and cafés pay Baristas the most in Des Plaines, this article will guide you through top spots and help you understand how pay differs based on the type of venue, location and experience requirements. We’ll also provide actionable advice to help you secure a high-paying Barista role.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Baristas in Des Plaines, IL- 1. Stray Cat Coffee
- 2. C’est La Vie Coffee Roasters
- 3. The Blue Buddha
- 4. Seven Grams Caffe
- 5. Aroma’s Coffee House
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Barista Earnings in Des Plaines
- How To Find a High Paying Barista Job in Des Plaines
- What’s the Outlook for Barista Jobs in Des Plaines in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Barista’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Des Plaines?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Des Plaines Barista Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Baristas in Des Plaines, IL
Des Plaines boasts a variety of coffee shops and restaurants that offer good earning potential for Baristas. These venues tend to balance competitive base wages with tips and often provide employee benefits that improve overall compensation.
Below are some top-paying restaurants and cafes you should consider as a Barista:
1. Stray Cat Coffee
Renowned for its locally sourced coffee and cozy atmosphere, Stray Cat Coffee draws a loyal customer base. The shop’s commitment to quality and community focus often translates into higher tips and a friendly work environment for Baristas.
2. C’est La Vie Coffee Roasters
This specialty coffee roaster and café is a favorite among coffee aficionados in Des Plaines. Their emphasis on artisanal brewing methods and fresh beans means Baristas gain valuable skills along with access to good pay and tips.
3. The Blue Buddha
A stylish spot popular for breakfast and brunch, The Blue Buddha pairs great food with quality beverages. This combination ensures steady customer flow and tipping opportunities for Baristas on shift.
4. Seven Grams Caffe
Known for sustainable coffee sourcing and a modern vibe, Seven Grams Caffe attracts a diverse crowd of customers. The café's supportive management and strong reputation contribute to a positive workplace and competitive compensation.
5. Aroma’s Coffee House
Aroma’s offers a community-focused experience with a variety of specialty drinks and pastries. Its commitment to customer service and quality often results in solid tips and consistent hours for Baristas who thrive in a bustling environment.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Barista Earnings in Des Plaines
The type of establishment where a Barista works has a significant influence on earnings. Upscale coffeehouses and specialty cafés usually offer higher wages and more generous tipping potential thanks to their premium product offerings.
On the other hand, fast-paced, casual diners or chain coffee shops may provide steadier hours but often come with a lower hourly rate and smaller tips. Baristas working in places with added food service or alcohol sales may also earn more due to multitasking roles.
Other factors impacting Barista earnings include:
- Location: Central or busy shopping districts typically generate higher customer volume and larger tickets.
- Experience and Skills: Baristas with specialized coffee training or certifications often secure higher pay.
- Benefits: Some establishments offer health insurance, paid time off and bonuses that enhance overall compensation.
How To Find a High Paying Barista Job in Des Plaines
Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight your customer service experience, knowledge of coffee preparation techniques and any certifications. Make sure your cover letter shows enthusiasm for craft coffee and attentiveness to detail.
Network Within the Local Coffee Community
Attend local coffee events, visit cafés to introduce yourself, and connect with Baristas and Managers on social media or in person. Many high-paying jobs are filled through referrals.
Focus on Upscale and Specialty Cafés
Target independent or specialty coffee shops rather than chains, as these places often offer better pay and opportunities for growth. Research venues known for quality beverages and a strong following.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice common interview questions, demonstrate your familiarity with café operations, and be ready to talk about maintaining customer satisfaction and handling busy shifts effectively.
Continue Learning
Develop new skills such as latte art, knowledge of brewing equipment and coffee bean varieties. Higher skill levels can lead to better wages and promotions.
What’s the Outlook for Barista Jobs in Des Plaines in 2025 and Beyond?
Barista positions in Des Plaines are expected to experience steady growth through 2025, in line with national trends in the food and beverage sector. The rise of specialty coffee culture and increasing consumer demand for quality café experiences will drive more job openings.
According to labor market data, hospitality roles focused on customer service, like Baristas, will remain essential as the industry recovers and expands, especially around busy commercial and residential areas.
Key factors contributing to demand:
- Increasing coffee consumption among all age groups.
- Expansion of boutique and independent coffee shops in suburban areas like Des Plaines.
- Growth in early morning and daytime café visits, requiring reliable staffing.
Baristas with versatility and strong customer engagement skills will be well-positioned for employment opportunities.
Is a Barista’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Des Plaines?
With an average base wage of approximately $14 per hour, plus potential tips, Baristas in Des Plaines can earn an estimated $29,000 annually working full-time. However, Des Plaines has a moderate cost of living compared to bigger cities.
Here’s a snapshot of typical monthly expenses in the area:
- Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment: $1,000 to $1,300
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): $150
- Groceries and household items: $300 to $400
- Public transportation or gas: $100 to $150
While the salary might cover basic living costs, financial comfort depends heavily on hours worked, consistent tips and any additional household income. Baristas in higher-end shops or with regular weekend shifts tend to do better financially.
Ultimately, working at well-paying venues with steady customer flow can make living in Des Plaines feasible and even comfortable for Baristas.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Des Plaines Barista Jobs
To select the top-paying Barista job opportunities in Des Plaines, we relied on data from local job listings, employee reviews and industry insights. This approach ensures that our recommendations reflect realistic pay scales and working conditions.
Our key criteria included:
- Competitive hourly pay rates, often above the local average.
- Consistent tipping environment verified by employee feedback.
- Reputation for fair scheduling and benefits that support work-life balance.
- Locations in busy commercial or community hubs where customer traffic is steady.
These factors combine to create ideal earning scenarios for Baristas seeking to maximize income while working in Des Plaines.
