What Restaurants Do Line Cooks Make the Most Money at in Memphis, TN?

The average hourly wage for Line Cooks in Memphis is approximately $15 per hour. However, actual earnings can vary depending on the restaurant and other factors such as skill level and shift timing.

In addition to their base pay, Line Cooks often benefit from tip pools or shared gratuities, which can add an extra $3 to $8 per hour in smaller cities like Memphis. While this might not be as high as front-of-house positions, it still significantly boosts overall income. In larger cities or upscale establishments, back-of-house staff can see even higher tipping opportunities, but in Memphis, these are more modest.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Line Cooks in Memphis, TN

Memphis offers a variety of dining experiences from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative farm-to-table concepts. Line Cooks working at these restaurants often find higher wages and better tipping shares compared to smaller or more casual eateries.

Below are some of Memphis’ top-paying establishments worth considering:

1. Restaurant Iris

Known for its upscale Southern-inspired menu and consistently praised service, Restaurant Iris has built a reputation for quality and innovation. Line Cooks benefit from a team-oriented kitchen with competitive pay to match its high-end offerings.

2. Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen

This restaurant combines authentic Italian flavors with modern techniques. It is popular among locals and tourists alike, creating a fast-paced kitchen environment where experienced Line Cooks can earn a solid hourly wage plus tip shares.

3. The Beauty Shop Restaurant

Set in a former beauty salon, this eclectic restaurant is famous for its creative Southern dishes and cocktail programs. The kitchen staff enjoys steady shifts with potential for extra income through tip pools distributed among back-of-house employees.

4. Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar

This trendy spot is well-known for its wine selection and elevated small plates. Line Cooks here handle a diverse menu that appeals to a sophisticated clientele, which translates into better pay and occasional bonuses during busy nights.

5. Hog & Hominy

Specializing in wood-fired pizzas with Southern ingredients, Hog & Hominy maintains a high volume kitchen. Line Cooks benefit from frequent shifts and a compensation structure designed to reward skilled and efficient cooks.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Line Cook Earnings in Memphis

The type of restaurant where a Line Cook works directly influences their pay and potential tips. Generally, establishments can be divided into casual eateries, mid-tier restaurants and upscale or fine dining venues.

Casual and fast-casual restaurants typically offer lower base wages and smaller tip pools, if any. Line Cooks here might expect tips around $2 to $4 per hour, supplementing their hourly pay.

Mid-tier restaurants often provide more consistent schedules and slightly better wages or tip sharing. Line Cooks may earn an additional $3 to $6 per hour in tips depending on restaurant volume and clientele generosity.

Upscale and fine dining venues in Memphis usually pay higher hourly wages and have more substantial tip pools distributed among kitchen staff. These kitchens require specialized skills and the ability to handle complex dishes efficiently. Tips in these environments can reach $5 to $8 per hour on top of base wages.

How To Find a High Paying Line Cook Job in Memphis

Research and Target the Right Establishments

Focus your job search on restaurants known for upscale dining, high customer volumes or a strong reputation in the community. These places generally pay more and offer better tipping opportunities.

Gain Relevant Experience and Certifications

Building skills such as food safety certification (ServSafe), knife handling and knowledge of various cooking techniques can increase your hireability and leverage for higher pay.

Prepare an Impressive Resume and Cover Letter

Highlight your culinary skills, reliability and ability to work in fast-paced environments. Tailor your application to the restaurant's style and emphasize any past experience with high-volume or fine dining kitchens.

Network with Industry Professionals

Connect with other cooks, Chefs and restaurant managers through industry events, social media or local culinary schools to uncover job openings and gain referrals.

Perform Well in Interviews and Trials

Be punctual, demonstrate professionalism and show your cooking skills confidently during trial shifts or interviews. A positive attitude and ability to work as part of a team go a long way.

What’s the Outlook for Line Cook Jobs in Memphis in 2025 and Beyond?

The demand for skilled Line Cooks in Memphis is expected to remain stable with moderate growth through 2025 and beyond. The city's vibrant food scene continues to grow, with new restaurants and food-focused events fueling the need for experienced kitchen staff.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, employment for cooks nationally is projected to grow about 6% from 2022 to 2032, slightly faster than average for all occupations. Memphis, with its strong tourism and cultural heritage, benefits from this trend, resulting in consistent job availability.

Opportunities are particularly strong in neighborhoods with emerging culinary scenes, such as Cooper-Young and Downtown Memphis, where innovative and upscale restaurants continue to open.

Is a Line Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Memphis?

With an average hourly wage of $15 plus around $3 to $8 per hour in tips, a Line Cook in Memphis can expect a total compensation in the range of $18 to $23 per hour. This translates to approximately $37,000 to $48,000 annually before taxes, assuming full-time employment.

Compared to other U.S. cities, Memphis offers a relatively low cost of living. For example, average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $850–$1,050. Utilities, groceries and transportation costs are also affordable relative to national averages.

This means a Line Cook earning at or above the average rate can cover essential living expenses and potentially save, especially with careful budgeting. While not lavish, this income allows for a comfortable lifestyle in Memphis.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Memphis Line Cook Jobs

We curated this list by analyzing job postings and wages, while also considering restaurant reputation, employee benefits and location convenience. These factors collectively signal establishments that reward skill and reliability appropriately.

Key considerations included:

Competitive base pay and tipping policies that boost overall income potential
Work environment that promotes professional growth and kitchen teamwork
Restaurants located in high-demand neighborhoods with steady customer traffic
Positive employee reviews and support for culinary staff development

Selecting restaurants by these standards ensures Line Cooks can find positions with both a good paycheck and a supportive environment.