The average hourly wage for Bartenders in Minneapolis is around $18 per hour, but actual earnings can vary significantly. Bartender income heavily depends on factors like the Restaurant’s concept, customer base and location within the city.
Wondering which restaurants pay Bartenders the most in Minneapolis? This article will explore some top venues known for excellent pay. We’ll also discuss how different factors influence Bartender salaries and share tips on how to find a high-paying Bartender job in Minneapolis.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Minneapolis, MN- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Minneapolis
- How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Minneapolis
- What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Minneapolis in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Minneapolis?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Minneapolis Bartender Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis offers a vibrant bar and Restaurant scene with many venues where Bartenders can earn excellent wages. From cocktail-focused bars to upscale Restaurants, these places typically feature higher base pay plus strong tipping potential.
Consider these top earners:
1. Joulite
Joulite is known for its artisanal cocktails crafted with local ingredients and a modern Nordic twist. Its focus on quality and creativity attracts a clientele willing to tip generously, making it a great spot for Bartenders to maximize earnings.
2. The Bachelor Farmer
Located in the North Loop, The Bachelor Farmer blends farm-to-table cuisine with a strong cocktail program. The upscale environment and emphasis on fresh spirits create an opportunity for Bartenders to earn through both base pay and tips.
3. Marvel Bar
Marvel Bar offers a cozy, speakeasy atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails. Its loyal customer base and quality drink menu contribute to solid tipping, making it a preferred workplace for Minneapolis Bartenders seeking high earnings.
4. Tattersall Distilling
Tattersall Distilling stands out as a craft distillery and cocktail bar, serving unique house-made spirits. This combination draws in cocktail enthusiasts, which can translate into strong tips and higher hourly pay for Bartenders here.
5. Barrio
Barrio is a popular Latin-American inspired Restaurant with an extensive tequila and mezcal menu. Its lively vibe encourages robust drink sales, benefiting Bartenders both in wages and gratuities.
6. Prohibition
Inspired by the 1920s, Prohibition focuses on craft cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting. The historic theme and quality drinks draw in guests with an appreciation for top-tier service, helping Bartenders boost their overall income.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Minneapolis
Bartender pay varies greatly depending on the type of establishment. Upscale dining and craft cocktail bars generally offer higher wages and more generous tipping opportunities than casual bars or chain Restaurants.
Key aspects that affect Bartender earnings include:
- Restaurant Concept: Cocktail bars and fine dining venues typically pay better than casual or fast-casual spots due to clientele expectations and higher beverage prices.
- Location: Bartenders working downtown or in affluent neighborhoods like North Loop usually earn more because of higher customer spending.
- Certifications and Skills: Bartenders with mixology certifications or specialized cocktail knowledge can command higher wages and tip better in craft-focused establishments.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts at busy venues often generate more tips than daytime hours.
Therefore, Bartenders aiming for higher income should target establishments where customers tend to spend more per visit and where service excellence is rewarded.
How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Minneapolis
Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight any prior Bartending experience, especially at upscale venues. Emphasize cocktail skills, certifications and customer service abilities in your application documents to stand out.
Network within the Hospitality Industry
Attend local events, visit bars during slow hours to introduce yourself to management, and connect with other Bartenders to learn about openings and referrals.
Target Upscale and Craft Cocktail Venues
Focus job searches on craft bars, fine dining Restaurants and establishments known for high-quality drink programs, as they usually offer better pay.
Prepare for Interviews
Research the bar’s drink menu and be ready to discuss your mixology knowledge and customer service approach. Present yourself professionally and confidently.
Be Flexible with Scheduling
Willingness to work nights and weekends, especially during busy seasons, can increase your chances of being hired and earning higher tips.
What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Minneapolis in 2025 and Beyond?
The Bartender job market in Minneapolis is expected to remain positive through 2025 and beyond, supported by a growing food and beverage industry. Continued urban development and a rising nightlife scene contribute to stable demand.
According to labor market projections, Bartender employment should see modest growth as Minneapolis attracts more residents and tourists who frequent its thriving bars and Restaurants.
Emerging trends include:
- Growth in craft cocktail bars and microdistilleries
- Increased emphasis on mixology skills and specialized beverage knowledge
- Expansion of experiential dining and bar concepts
Overall, Bartenders with strong mixology skills and customer service excellence are well-positioned to thrive in Minneapolis’s evolving hospitality landscape.
Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Minneapolis?
With an average wage of about $18 per hour, Bartenders in Minneapolis can earn approximately $37,000 annually before tips. However, tips often substantially increase total income, especially at high-end venues.
Here’s a snapshot of typical monthly living costs in Minneapolis:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,400
- Utilities: $150
- Transportation: $80–$120
- Groceries: $250–$400
Bartenders working at busy, upscale bars with steady clientele often earn enough to comfortably cover rent and living expenses while saving or enjoying local amenities.
Earnings fluctuate with shift hours and venue prestige, so securing a role in a high-traffic, premium location is key to living well as a Bartender in Minneapolis.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Minneapolis Bartender Jobs
We selected these Bartender jobs based on thorough research of job postings, Bartender reviews and industry insights. These venues are recognized for competitive pay, good benefits and strong reputations within the Minneapolis hospitality scene.
Key factors in our selection:
- Location: Bars situated in high-foot-traffic or affluent neighborhoods
- Establishment Type: Upscale Restaurants, craft cocktail bars and distilleries with premium offerings
- Worker Feedback: Positive reports about tipping frequency, base wages and work environment
- Job Stability: Businesses with a solid market presence and consistent customer volume
These combined factors create an environment where Bartenders have the best chances to maximize their earnings in Minneapolis.
