The average hourly wage for Hostesses in Tempe is typically around $13 per hour. However, their total compensation often includes tips, which can range widely depending on the venue, from an additional $2 to $10 per hour or more in busier upscale establishments. This means an experienced Hostess at a popular restaurant might make substantially more than base pay alone.
In this article, we’ll explore which restaurants in Tempe tend to pay Hostesses well and the factors influencing these earnings. We’ll also discuss how location, restaurant type and tips impact overall income and provide tips on landing a high-paying position in this role.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Hostesses in Tempe, AZ- 1. Culinary Dropout
- 2. House of Tricks
- 3. Four Peaks Brewing Company
- 4. The Vig Fillmore
- 5. Postino Annex
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Hostess Earnings in Tempe
- How To Find a High Paying Hostess Job in Tempe
- What’s the Outlook for Hostess Jobs in Tempe in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Hostess’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Tempe?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tempe Hostess Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Hostesses in Tempe, AZ
Tempe features a mix of casual and upscale dining where Hostesses can find varying pay scales and work environments. The following venues stand out for better-than-average wages and positive work culture, making them attractive options for job seekers.
1. Culinary Dropout
Located in The Yard, Culinary Dropout is known for its trendy atmosphere and creative American fare. This restaurant benefits from a lively and social customer base, leading to steady tip income for Hostesses and a supportive management team that values front-of-house staff.
2. House of Tricks
Renowned for its charming garden patio and seasonal menu, House of Tricks offers a more upscale dining experience in nearby Tempe neighborhoods. Hostesses here enjoy a welcoming environment with good hourly pay and regular tip sharing especially during weekend dinner services.
3. Four Peaks Brewing Company
As a popular local brewery and restaurant, Four Peaks draws a diverse crowd looking to enjoy craft beer and pub food. Its spacious location demands efficient Hostesses who are compensated fairly, with opportunities to earn additional tips during busier nights and events.
4. The Vig Fillmore
The Vig Fillmore is a hip eatery offering eclectic dishes alongside cocktails and live music. Situated in a vibrant district, the Hostess position here includes competitive pay plus tipping opportunities influenced by high guest volume and lively entertainment nights.
5. Postino Annex
Famous for its extensive wine list and casual Mediterranean-inspired menu, Postino Annex attracts a crowd that enjoys lingering over drinks and small plates. The Hostess role here allows for solid tip income alongside a steady base wage, making it a favorite among those working in hospitality.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Hostess Earnings in Tempe
Different types of restaurants in Tempe can influence how much Hostesses earn, particularly based on tips and hourly pay.
Upscale or fine dining venues often pay higher base wages and give Hostesses the opportunity to earn larger tips due to higher check averages. In these locations, tipping may add anywhere from $5 to $15 per hour to the pay rate.
In contrast, casual dining or fast-casual concepts generally offer lower hourly wages and tips for Hostesses. Here, tip ranges often fall between $2 and $6 per hour but can be more consistent due to steady traffic.
Location matters as well. Restaurants in busy, trendy districts or near shopping and entertainment centers tend to generate higher table turnover and larger parties, which boost tipping potential for front-of-house employees.
How To Find a High Paying Hostess Job in Tempe
If you’re aiming to secure a well-paying Hostess position in Tempe, consider these tips:
- Create a strong resume: Highlight customer service experience, punctuality and your ability to handle busy environments gracefully.
- Network locally: Visit popular dining spots, introduce yourself to Managers and express your interest directly to increase your chances.
- Seek positions in high-demand areas: Target restaurants near Arizona State University, Mill Avenue and downtown Tempe, which are known for lively dining scenes.
- Be flexible with shifts: Offering availability during peak hours, nights and weekends can make you a more attractive candidate.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice common hospitality questions and demonstrate enthusiasm for customer service.
What’s the Outlook for Hostess Jobs in Tempe in 2025 and Beyond?
The hospitality industry in Tempe is expected to maintain steady growth through 2025 and beyond, supported by factors such as Arizona State University's continued expansion, growing tourism and an active local restaurant scene.
According to labor market projections, demand for front-of-house roles like Hostesses will remain solid as new eateries and entertainment venues open. Seasonal fluctuations may occur with college semesters, but overall, the position is poised for stable employment opportunities.
Additionally, the growing focus on customer experience in many establishments means well-trained Hostesses are increasingly valued, sometimes leading to advancement opportunities into Management or other supervisory roles.
Is a Hostess’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Tempe?
A Hostess in Tempe can expect to make roughly $27,000 to $35,000 annually with a combination of base pay and tips, depending on hours worked and restaurant type.
The cost of living in Tempe is relatively moderate. Typical monthly expenses for a single adult include:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: Approximately $1,200
- Utilities: Around $150
- Groceries: $300 to $400
- Transportation (gas, public transit): $100 to $150
For Hostesses working in higher-end or busy restaurants where tipping is consistent, living comfortably on this income is achievable, especially when sharing housing or budgeting carefully.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tempe Hostess Jobs
Location
We selected restaurants located in high-traffic and popular areas such as downtown Tempe, Mill Avenue district and spots near Arizona State University, places known for strong customer flow and busy dining scenes that support better earnings.
Compensation and Tips
Restaurants featured here offer competitive base wages and tipping opportunities above the Tempe average, ensuring Hostesses have the potential to boost income beyond standard pay rates.
Work Environment
We focused on venues with positive reviews on workplace culture and reputation for valuing front-of-house roles, recognizing that a supportive environment is crucial for long-term job satisfaction and earnings growth.
Career Advancement Potential
Many of the chosen restaurants provide career growth opportunities for Hostesses aspiring to move into Management or other roles within the hospitality industry.
