The average hourly wage for Bartenders in Virginia Beach is approximately $18 per hour. However, actual earnings can significantly vary depending on the establishment and factors such as tips, location and experience.
Curious about which restaurants in Virginia Beach pay Bartenders the most? This article will highlight some of the top-paying spots, explore how different factors impact Bartender income and share tips on securing a high-paying Bartending job in the city.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Virginia Beach- 1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
- 2. The Royal Chocolate
- 3. Bay Local Eatery
- 4. Commune
- 5. Backyard Bar & Grill
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings
- How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Virginia Beach
- What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Virginia Beach in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Virginia Beach?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Virginia Beach Bartender Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach boasts a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, where Bartenders can find lucrative opportunities from beachfront venues to trendy local hotspots. These bars and restaurants often provide competitive base pay alongside excellent tipping potential.
Below are some standout establishments known for good Bartender earnings:
1. Waterman's Surfside Grille
Famous for its oceanfront views and fresh seafood, Waterman's Surfside Grille draws a steady stream of tourists and locals alike. Bartenders here enjoy high ticket sales and generous tips that reflect the upscale dining experience.
2. The Royal Chocolate
This craft cocktail bar is known for its inventive drinks and strong community following. The focus on quality ingredients and mixology skills means Bartenders can command higher wages and tips in this creative environment.
3. Bay Local Eatery
A lively spot featuring local brews and a fun atmosphere, Bay Local Eatery attracts a younger crowd and boasts busy bar shifts. Bartenders benefit from high volume and consistent tipping in this casual but popular venue.
4. Commune
Commune prides itself on farm-to-table cuisine and an impressive cocktail menu. The upscale yet relaxed vibe means Bartenders earn well through a combination of steady wages and enthusiastic tips.
5. Backyard Bar & Grill
Known for its outdoor seating and laid-back energy, Backyard Bar & Grill is a favorite during warmer months. The venue's lively crowds provide Bartenders with constant tipping opportunities especially during events and weekends.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings
The type of restaurant or bar greatly influences how much a Bartender can earn in Virginia Beach. Factors like the establishment’s style, client base and required skills shape the overall pay structure.
Here is how different types affect earnings:
- Upscale or Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher base wages and attract customers who tip generously, resulting in greater overall income.
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Generally have lower hourly pay but make up for it with higher volume and frequent tipping opportunities during busy hours.
- Beachfront and Tourist Hotspots: Often provide lucrative seasonal opportunities, with higher tabs and tips during peak tourism months.
- Certified or Specialist Bartenders: Possessing certifications like mixology or Bartending licenses and excelling in craft cocktails can boost earning potential.
Overall, Bartenders with a combination of solid technical skills and placement in high-traffic or premium venues tend to maximize their income.
How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Virginia Beach
Research Popular Neighborhoods
Target areas such as the Oceanfront, Town Center and ViBe Creative District where demand for skilled Bartenders is higher and establishments often pay more.
Build a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight relevant experience, certifications and your knowledge of popular and craft cocktails. Tailoring your application to the establishment’s style can make you stand out.
Network within the Hospitality Community
Attend local industry events and connect with Bartenders and managers. Many top Bartending positions are filled through referrals or walk-ins.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice common Bartending interview questions and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge of drink recipes and customer service skills.
Consider Certification and Training
Earning formal Bartending credentials can improve your marketability and often lead to higher-paying roles.
What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Virginia Beach in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Bartenders in Virginia Beach is expected to remain steady to grow moderately through 2025 and beyond. This is driven by steady tourism inflows, an expanding food and beverage scene and increasing nightlife activity.
According to occupational projections and labor market data, job opportunities for Bartenders will correlate closely with the hospitality industry’s performance. The Oceanfront area, Town Center and emerging districts are forecasted to see new venues opening, creating fresh job openings.
Key trends favoring Bartenders include:
- Growth in craft cocktail culture increasing demand for skilled Bartenders
- Seasonal tourism driving high-volume shifts during spring and summer months
- Expansion of event spaces and entertainment venues needing professional bar staff
Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Virginia Beach?
With an average wage of around $18 per hour, Bartenders in Virginia Beach can earn roughly $37,000 annually before tips and additional income from busy shifts.
Living costs in Virginia Beach are comparatively moderate. Estimated monthly expenses include:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,200
- Utilities (electricity, water, etc.): $150
- Monthly Public Transit or Gas: $100–$180
- Groceries (single adult): $300–$450
Bartenders working at high-volume or upscale establishments with strong tipping potential can comfortably cover rent, utilities and daily expenses, with some left for savings or leisure activities.
Ultimately, success depends on securing a position where base wage and tips combine to form a reliable and sustainable income.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Virginia Beach Bartender Jobs
To identify top-paying Bartender jobs in Virginia Beach, we evaluated a variety of factors including: pay rates, tipping potential and work environment quality.
We carefully reviewed data from job listings, customer reviews and industry insights to select venues that are known for offering competitive salaries, strong benefits and good location accessibility.
Our selections emphasize establishments that balance steady customer traffic with positive employer reputations to ensure both reliable earnings and a supportive workplace for Bartenders.
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