The typical hourly wage for Bartenders in Norfolk stands at about $15 per hour, which can fluctuate significantly based on the establishment and its clientele. Earnings are heavily influenced by factors such as the restaurant or bar's style, location and the Bartender’s experience and skills.
If you're curious about which restaurants offer the highest pay for Bartenders in Norfolk, this article will guide you through some top venues and explain how Bartender salaries can vary. Plus, we'll share tips on how to secure a high-paying Bartending position in the area.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Norfolk, VA- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Norfolk, VA
- How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Norfolk, VA
- What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Norfolk, VA in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Norfolk, VA?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Norfolk, VA Bartender Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Norfolk, VA
Norfolk boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, offering Bartenders great opportunities to earn competitive wages. From trendy cocktail bars to established waterfront restaurants, here are some venues known for rewarding their Bartenders well.
1. The Birch
Known for its artisanal cocktails and seasonal ingredients, The Birch combines a rustic atmosphere with a modern craft cocktail menu. Its focus on quality attracts an upscale clientele, leading to potentially higher earnings per shift for Bartenders.
2. Stella & Dot
Stella & Dot offers a refined dining experience and a curated drinks menu featuring local craft beers and inventive cocktails. The stylish ambiance and loyal customer base mean Bartenders here often benefit from consistent generous tips.
3. Folly & Fare
This cozy spot on the waterfront is beloved for its inventive drink offerings inspired by southern flavors. Its reputation for attentive service and quality beverages helps Bartenders maximize both tips and hourly wage.
4. The Ten Top
A modern steakhouse with a lively bar scene, The Ten Top has a strong focus on premium liquors and handcrafted cocktails. Having a Bartending position here means working among a vibrant crowd ready to spend, increasing earning potential.
5. Freemason Abbey Restaurant
Housed in a historic building, Freemason Abbey offers not only classic American cuisine but also an expansive selection of wines and cocktails. Bartenders often enjoy a mix of consistent tips and competitive base pay from well-heeled diners.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Norfolk, VA
Different types of venues generally provide varying pay structures and earning potential for Bartenders. Upscale establishments typically offer higher base wages along with the opportunity for sizeable tips from affluent customers.
Casual bars and neighborhood pubs may have lower hourly rates but often benefit from a steadier flow of customers, providing consistent tip income throughout shifts.
Some factors affecting Bartender earnings include:
- Venue prestige and price point: High-end spots usually mean higher tips.
- Location: Popular tourist areas or business districts often attract customers willing to spend more.
- Certifications and skills: Bartenders knowledgeable in craft cocktails, wine pairings and mixology certifications generally command better pay.
- Shift timing: Evenings and weekends tend to be more lucrative.
How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Norfolk, VA
Gain Specialized Skills and Certifications
Developing expertise in craft cocktails, spirits knowledge or obtaining certifications such as TIPS or ServSafe can make you more attractive to upscale employers, increasing your pay potential.
Target Upscale and Busy Locations
Focus your job search on areas with high foot traffic and affluent clientele such as Norfolk’s downtown or waterfront districts to find employers who pay well and have good tipping cultures.
Network and Use Local Resources
Attend hospitality events or join local Bartenders’ communities to learn about openings and get referrals. Personal connections often lead to opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight your Bartending experience, notable skills and any relevant customer service awards or achievements. Tailoring your application to the specific venue shows professionalism and dedication.
Prepare Thoroughly for Interviews
Practice common Bartending interview questions, demonstrate enthusiasm for mixology and be ready to discuss your knowledge of drink recipes and customer service practices.
What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Norfolk, VA in 2025 and Beyond?
Norfolk’s hospitality industry is poised for steady growth in the coming years, with the city’s expanding tourism, waterfront redevelopment and vibrant nightlife fueling demand for skilled Bartenders.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bartending positions nationwide are expected to grow at an average rate through 2028, and Norfolk’s development projects are likely to contribute to increased local demand.
This means now is a good time to gain experience and build a career as a Bartender in Norfolk, with stable job prospects and potential for upward mobility within the industry.
Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Norfolk, VA?
With an average hourly base wage of about $15 per hour, Bartenders in Norfolk can earn approximately $31,200 annually before tips. Including tips, many Bartenders bring home significantly more.
Norfolk’s cost of living is moderate compared to national averages. For example:
- Average rent (1-bedroom city center): around $1,000 per month
- Utilities (monthly): approximately $150
- Groceries (monthly): roughly $300–$400
With strong tipping and steady shifts, a Bartender’s income in Norfolk can cover living expenses comfortably and provide a reasonable lifestyle, especially when managing budgets wisely.
Success in this role often hinges on gaining experience in well-paying locations where tips are better, and maintaining a positive reputation with regular patrons.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Norfolk, VA Bartender Jobs
We selected venues based on comprehensive research that included review of pay rates on job listings, direct feedback from Bartending professionals and local hospitality industry insights.
Important selection factors were:
- Compensation: Restaurants and bars known to offer competitive base pay with strong tipping cultures.
- Work Environment: Establishments reputed for positive employee treatment and professional management.
- Location: Venues situated in busy, economically thriving districts attracting customers who tip well.
- Reputation: Counting on brands or restaurants with loyal customers and good public profiles, which enhances job stability.
These components combine to create prime opportunities for Bartenders seeking higher income in Norfolk’s hospitality sector.
