The average hourly wage for Bartenders in Inglewood is about $18 per hour, offering a solid baseline before tips and bonuses. Earnings can vary considerably, however, based on the type of venue and the clientele it serves.
If you are curious about which restaurants in Inglewood pay Bartenders the best, this article will walk you through some of the city’s top-paying spots, showcase how earnings depend on multiple factors, and offer tips on how to find high-paying Bartender jobs in the area.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Inglewood, CA- 1. Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen
- 2. The Proud Bird
- 3. Kincaids
- 4. 109 Bar and Grill
- 5. Apostle's Brew Coffee
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Inglewood
- How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Inglewood
- What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Inglewood, CA in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Inglewood?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Inglewood Bartender Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Inglewood, CA
Inglewood offers a growing hospitality scene where Bartenders can benefit from a range of venues from upscale restaurants to community favorites and entertainment-centric bars. Here are some top spots known for rewarding their Bartenders well, whether via competitive base pay or exceptional tipping opportunities.
1. Gordon Ramsay Hell’s Kitchen
Located near SoFi Stadium, this celebrity Chef-owned restaurant draws diners looking for an upscale and theatrical dining experience. Bartenders appreciate the high volume of patrons and premium beverage menus that can lead to significant tips.
2. The Proud Bird
A unique aviation-themed venue offering great views of LAX, The Proud Bird combines specialty cocktails with a lively atmosphere. The mix of locals and travelers results in consistent bar traffic and a steady earning potential for Bartenders.
3. Kincaids
This well-established American restaurant features a full bar and hosts popular weekend events. Known for its quality drinks and delicious food, Bartenders benefit from both busy service hours and the generous tips from regular guests.
4. 109 Bar and Grill
A cozy neighborhood spot with a focus on craft cocktails and local beers, 109 Bar and Grill attracts a dedicated patronage. Bartenders here enjoy an opportunity to build client relationships that often translate to reliable tips and extra income.
5. Apostle's Brew Coffee
While primarily known as a coffee shop, Apostle's Brew has expanded its offerings to include evening cocktail service. Bartenders who can adapt to this unique setting find chances for additional shifts with varied clientele and competitive compensation.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Inglewood
Bartenders' incomes hinge heavily on the type of establishment they work in. Upscale restaurants and cocktail lounges usually offer higher base wages alongside greater tipping potential due to elevated pricing and affluent guests.
Conversely, casual and neighborhood bars might pay a lower hourly wage but can make up for it with high sales volume and busy nights, increasing tip amounts through sheer frequency of orders.
Certification and training can also affect earnings. Bartenders with certifications like the TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) or specialized cocktail training can command higher starting pay or bonuses.
- Upscale venues: Higher base pay, affluent clientele and premium drink prices lead to substantial tips.
- Casual bars: Lower base pay but potentially steady hours and frequent tipping by regular customers.
- Specialty certifications: Increase job prospects and bargaining power for pay.
- Event-driven venues: Places near stadiums or event centers may have unpredictable but ample tip opportunities during game days or concerts.
- Location matters: Bars and restaurants in vibrant neighborhoods with active nightlife can maintain strong business and greater earnings potential.
How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Inglewood
Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight your previous Bartending experience, particularly in busy or upscale environments. Mention any certifications, specialty skills or cocktail knowledge that sets you apart to attract higher-paying employers.
Practice Interview Skills
Be ready to discuss your speed, customer service style and ability to manage multiple orders or high-pressure situations. Demonstrating professionalism and passion can sway employers toward offering higher pay.
Network within the Industry
Attend local hospitality events or reach out to Bartenders and Managers in Inglewood. Personal referrals and connections often lead to better job offers that might not be advertised broadly.
Target Upscale and Event-Centric Venues
Focus your job search on restaurants near major attractions (like SoFi Stadium) or trendy neighborhoods, as these establishments tend to have the highest earnings for Bartenders.
Apply in Person During Off-Peak Hours
Dropping off your resume in person and speaking directly with Managers during quieter times can make you memorable and demonstrate your eagerness.
What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Inglewood, CA in 2025 and Beyond?
The trajectory for Bartender positions in Inglewood is positive. Growth in entertainment venues and the ongoing revival of the local dining scene ensures increased demand for skilled Bartenders. In particular, the area's proximity to the SoFi Stadium and related developments means hospitality jobs will continue to expand.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and regional economic reports, the Bartender occupation in the Los Angeles metro area, which includes Inglewood, is expected to grow steadily through 2028, with increasing emphasis on quality customer service and mixology skills.
This means workers with strong social and technical Bartending skills will likely find plentiful job options and competitive wages in the coming years.
Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Inglewood?
Bartenders in Inglewood generally earn annual incomes around $37,000 to $45,000 when combining base pay and tips based on the average hourly wage of $18. This, of course, depends on shift hours and venue.
The cost of living in Inglewood is lower than many parts of the Los Angeles metro area but includes significant expenses such as:
- Average Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment: Approximately $1,600 to $1,900 per month
- Utilities (electricity, water, etc.): Around $150 per month
- Groceries and Food: Roughly $300 to $450 per month for single adults
- Transportation: Costs vary, but public transit monthly passes are around $100
Bartenders employed at high-volume or upscale venues with strong tip income typically manage to cover rent, utilities and essentials comfortably, and may also save or enjoy leisure activities.
Success and financial stability depend significantly on securing shifts at busy venues, maintaining reliability and building rapport with patrons.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Inglewood Bartender Jobs
We selected these restaurants and bars based on multiple key factors to identify where Bartenders can maximize earnings and enjoy positive working conditions.
- Competitive Compensation: Venues known for higher base pay and strong tipping environments.
- Location: Establishments close to major entertainment hubs and busy nightlife districts.
- Reputation: Businesses with solid customer bases, positive reviews and consistent high foot traffic.
- Career Growth Potential: Places offering staff development, Bartending training or advancement opportunities.
These considerations ensure Bartenders not only earn well but also enjoy long-term career satisfaction in Inglewood’s energetic hospitality scene.
