What Restaurants Do Hostesses Make the Most Money at in Minneapolis, MN?

The average hourly wage for Hostesses in Minneapolis is approximately $15 per hour. However, this figure doesn't tell the whole story. Hostesses often receive tips, which can add anywhere from $3 to $12 per hour depending on the restaurant's scale and clientele.

So, if you’re curious about which restaurants pay Hostesses the best in Minneapolis, this article will provide insight. We’ll explore several establishments known for offering competitive pay and tip potential and discuss how location, type of restaurant and certifications might influence your earning power.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Hostesses in Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis has a variety of dining establishments where Hostesses can earn attractive wages and tips. From upscale steakhouses to trendy farm-to-table spots, these restaurants offer positions with strong earning potential and good working environments.

1. The Capital Grille

Renowned for its refined ambiance and excellent service, The Capital Grille delivers a premium dining experience. As a luxury steakhouse, Hostesses here benefit from steady shifts filled with well-tipping clientele and a well-structured compensation package.

2. Manny’s Steakhouse

Established in 1946, Manny’s is an iconic Minneapolis institution known for its classic steakhouse vibe and high-quality cuts. Hostesses at Manny’s frequently experience consistent tips due to the restaurant’s loyal and upscale guest base.

3. Spoon and Stable

This critically acclaimed eatery offers an inventive American menu in a restored stable setting, earning multiple culinary awards. Hostesses here enjoy a stylish work atmosphere along with opportunity for good hourly pay and tip contributions.

4. Bachelor Farmer

Known for its Nordic-inspired farm-to-table cuisine, the Bachelor Farmer emphasizes local ingredients and warm hospitality. Hostesses earn competitive wages in this cozy yet upscale environment, attracting customers ready to tip generously.

5. Alma

Alma combines seasonal, French-inspired dishes with a casual yet elegant setting. Hostesses working here often report positive experiences with a good blend of hourly wage and tips, supported by a patronage that appreciates attentive service.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Hostess Earnings

Where you work as a Hostess greatly affects your earning potential. Upscale restaurants tend to offer higher base wages and better tipping opportunities compared to casual dining spots. That’s because wealthier clientele with higher average bills generally tip more generously.

Additionally, restaurants that host private events, weddings or corporate functions often provide extra gratuities for their front-of-house staff, including Hostesses.

Factors influencing tips and wage include:

• Upscale vs Casual: Upscale places with fine dining experiences often yield tips from $8 to $12 per hour while casual diners might see tips closer to $3 to $6 per hour.
• Location: Restaurants in busy neighborhoods or near entertainment districts typically enjoy higher patron traffic and bigger tips.
• Certifications: Certifications in hospitality or customer service can sometimes lead to premium pay and elevated roles.

How To Find a High Paying Hostess Job in Minneapolis

Understand the Market

Research neighborhoods in Minneapolis known for fine dining and active nightlife, such as North Loop and Uptown. This helps you target eateries that pay more.

Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter

Emphasize customer service skills, previous Hostess experience and any relevant certifications to stand out.

Practice Interview Skills

Be ready to answer questions about managing seating efficiently, handling busy service periods and providing exceptional guest experiences.

Network

Connect with hospitality professionals via local meetups or social media groups focused on Minneapolis’s dining scene to learn about openings early.

Apply Strategically

Visit restaurants during off-peak hours to inquire about openings and leave your resume personally to show dedication.

What’s the Outlook for Hostess Jobs in Minneapolis in 2025 and Beyond?

Looking ahead, Minneapolis's restaurant industry is expected to experience steady growth. The city’s vibrant dining culture continues to attract residents and tourists alike, increasing demand for hospitality roles like Hostesses.

According to industry forecasts and labor statistics, entry-level roles including Hostesses are projected to see a consistent number of openings as new restaurants open and existing ones expand services.

Growth is especially promising in neighborhoods focused on revitalizing nightlife and dining, such as the Warehouse District and Northeast Minneapolis. These trends suggest ample opportunities for job seekers.

Is a Hostess’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Minneapolis?

A Hostess in Minneapolis earning an average hourly wage of $15 plus $3 to $12 per hour in tips can make between $39,000 and $56,000 annually, assuming full-time hours.

In comparison, average costs in Minneapolis include:

• 1-bedroom apartment (city center): roughly $1,300 per month
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): about $150 monthly
• Groceries (single person): $300 to $400 per month

This income level supports a modest but comfortable lifestyle in Minneapolis, particularly with consistent tips and careful budgeting. However, additional income or a dual income household may be required for more expensive housing or higher lifestyle costs.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Minneapolis Hostess Jobs

We curated the list of Minneapolis restaurants based on several important factors to ensure you get the best opportunities:

• Competitive Pay: Prioritizing restaurants that advertise or are known to offer attractive base wages and tip averages for Hostesses.
• Reputation: Including venues with solid reputations for staff treatment and guest satisfaction to ensure a positive work environment.
• Location: Selecting establishments in thriving areas renowned for active dining scenes and affluent guests.
• Benefits and Stability: Considering restaurants that provide benefits or stable employment to support long-term career growth.

These combined criteria help ensure you find positions that are not only lucrative but also rewarding and professionally sustainable.