What Restaurants Do Servers Make the Most Money at in Detroit, MI?

The average hourly wage for Restaurant Servers in Detroit is around $18 per hour. However, most Servers earn significantly more through tips, which can vary widely depending on the type of establishment and location within the city.

For Servers in Detroit, tips can add anywhere from an additional $5 to $15 per hour in more casual settings, while those in upscale Restaurants can often earn between $30 and $70 per hour in tips alone. This article will explore the best-paying Restaurants for Servers in Detroit and break down how tips and Restaurant type impact earnings.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Detroit, MI

Detroit boasts a variety of Restaurants that offer excellent earning opportunities for Servers, especially those that cater to an upscale clientele or have established reputations for fine dining. Below are some of the top-paying spots to consider for serving jobs.

1. Lady of the House

This Michelin Guide-recognized Restaurant combines locally sourced Michigan ingredients with a cozy, trendy atmosphere. Servers here typically benefit from a generous tipping crowd who appreciates the creative menu and personalized service.

2. Wright & Company

Known for its elegant small plates and craft cocktails, Wright & Company provides a refined dining experience. Its clientele often spends lavishly, creating prime tipping opportunities for attentive and knowledgeable Servers.

3. The Rattlesnake Club

Located on the Detroit Riverfront, The Rattlesnake Club is famous for its sophisticated American cuisine and scenic views. Servers often earn well due to high check averages and a regular flow of visitors celebrating special occasions.

4. Selden Standard

A favorite in Detroit for seasonal small plates and craft cocktails, Selden Standard attracts a hip and affluent crowd. This bustling spot provides opportunities for Servers to earn solid tips during busy shifts.

5. Roast Detroit

Situated inside the Shinola Hotel, Roast offers a luxurious steakhouse experience. Upscale ambiance and high-priced menu items translate into excellent earnings for experienced Servers.

6. Townhouse Detroit

This modern American bistro is praised for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes. With a loyal patron base and a focus on quality service, Servers here stand to benefit from strong tips on top of a fair base wage.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Detroit

The type of Restaurant is a crucial factor influencing a Server's earnings. In Detroit, Servers working in upscale, fine-dining establishments typically earn higher base wages and receive substantially larger tips due to affluent clientele and larger average checks.

Casual or family-style Restaurants may offer lower hourly wages and more modest tips, but they often provide more consistent work hours and steady customer flow.

Additionally, Bartenders and Servers with specialized knowledge, such as fine wines or craft cocktails, tend to command better pay because they can enhance the dining experience and boost sales.

• Upscale Restaurants: Tips often range from $30 to $70+ per hour due to high spending guests.
• Casual dining establishments: Tips typically range from $5 to $15 per hour, with steadier but smaller ticket sizes.
• Specialized certifications: Servers with formal wine or mixology training may unlock higher-paying opportunities.

How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Detroit

Target Upscale Neighborhoods

Focus your job search on economic hubs like Downtown Detroit, Midtown, and Corktown where high-end Restaurants and trendy spots tend to be located, increasing chances for better pay and tips.

Enhance Your Resume

Showcase any experience with fine dining or Bartending, highlight knowledge of wine and spirits, and emphasize customer service skills to stand out to employers seeking top talent.

Network Within the Industry

Connect with current Servers and Restaurant Managers in Detroit by attending hospitality events or frequenting dining establishments. Personal referrals often trump online applications.

Be Proactive with Applications

Submit applications during slower shifts to ensure Managers have time to speak with you. Prepare by researching the Restaurant’s menu and dress for professionalism to make a strong impression.

What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Detroit in 2025 and Beyond?

The Detroit Restaurant scene is rebounding and evolving, with a steady increase in demand for skilled Servers expected through 2025 and beyond. Revitalization efforts in downtown and surrounding neighborhoods continue to attract new Restaurants and investment.

According to labor projections, food service jobs in Michigan, including Servers, will grow moderately as tourism, business visits and urban development contribute to increased dining out.

Emerging trends boosting demand include:

• More upscale and boutique dining options opening in Detroit neighborhoods
• Expansion of craft cocktail bars and mixology-focused venues
• Increased focus on customer experience and attentive service

Servers who cultivate strong customer service skills and specialize in fine dining are well-positioned to benefit from Detroit's growing hospitality sector.

Is a Server’s Salary Enough To Live Well in Detroit?

With an average base wage of about $18 per hour, combined with tips that can add an additional $5 to $70 per hour depending on the Restaurant, Servers in Detroit can potentially earn a comfortable annual income.

The cost of living in Detroit is relatively affordable compared to many major U.S. cities. Here’s a snapshot of typical monthly expenses in 2025:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $900
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): $150
• Groceries (individual): $300–$450
• Local transit or gas: $80–$150

Servers employed in Detroit’s upscale Restaurants with high tipping potential can not only cover these costs but also save and enjoy a good quality of life.

However, earnings vary considerably based on the establishment, shift patterns, handling busy periods and tip reliability.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Detroit Server Jobs

To compile our list of top-paying Restaurants for Servers in Detroit, we considered multiple factors based on data from job listings, customer reviews and industry insights.

• Pay Rates: We prioritized Restaurants known to offer competitive base wages and consistently high tipping.
• Location: Venues in prominent Detroit neighborhoods with a strong Restaurant culture and affluent visitors.
• Reputation: Establishments with stellar customer service, regular clientele and an emphasis on quality dining experiences.
• Work Environment: Restaurants that provide good management, training opportunities and benefits to support Servers’ long-term success.

This approach ensures the Restaurants featured provide solid earning potential alongside a positive work atmosphere for Servers seeking career growth.