What Restaurants Do Servers Make the Most Money at in Franklin, TN?

Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Franklin, TN: Key Takeaways

• The average hourly wage for Servers in Franklin, TN is around $20 to $28 per hour at top-paying restaurants.
• Tips significantly boost earnings, with Servers often making an additional $5-$15 per hour depending on restaurant type and location.
• Olive Garden and California Pizza Kitchen are among the highest-paying restaurants for Servers in Franklin, TN.

The earning potential for Servers in Franklin, TN varies across restaurants, with some offering above average wages and significant tips.

Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of restaurants where Servers can maximize their income in Franklin and key factors influencing pay.

For insights on how to craft effective resumes and cover letters that impress hospitality employers, check out writing hospitality ads that attract more candidates.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Franklin, TN

Franklin offers a blend of casual and upscale dining establishments where Servers can earn competitive wages and meaningful tips.

Olive Garden

Olive Garden is famous for its Italian-American cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. Servers here earn top wages averaging around $28.04 per hour, boosted by steady customer flow and generous tips.

California Pizza Kitchen

Known for innovative pizzas and a casual yet trendy setting, this restaurant pays Servers about $22.73 per hour, and tips can significantly enhance income.

J. Alexander's Restaurants

This upscale American restaurant is popular for its steaks and elegant ambiance. Servers make approximately $20.70 per hour, with tip income reflecting the higher price points.

IHOP

The iconic pancake house offers Servers roughly $20.42 per hour, with breakfast crowds providing ample tipping opportunities throughout the day.

First Watch

First Watch is a breakfast and brunch-focused chain offering Servers around $12.77 per hour, a bit lower base pay but steady tips during peak hours.

To prepare effectively, explore our guide on common server interview questions and how to answer them well.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Franklin, TN

The type of restaurant has a strong influence on Server salaries and tip potential, with various factors at play.

• Casual and Chain Restaurants: These venues often have steady customer volume and moderate tips, with total earnings typically in the range of $15-$25 per hour.
• Upscale Dining Establishments: Servers make more in base pay and can enjoy tips between $20 and $50 per hour or higher due to larger bills and generous tipping culture.
• Experience and Certification: Having formal hospitality training or certifications can improve wages and access to premium venues.
• Location and Clientele: Restaurants located in busy or affluent neighborhoods tend to offer higher pay and tipping opportunities.

Employers looking to reduce turnover and maintain staff quality might benefit from reading about strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover.

How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Franklin, TN

Craft a Strong Cover Letter and Resume

Emphasize your hospitality experience, customer service skills, and any certifications to catch managers’ attention.

See examples of writing a waitress cover letter for inspiration in crafting your own.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice common interview questions for Servers and be ready to discuss how you handle busy shifts and customer challenges.

Gain Relevant Experience and Certifications

Consider obtaining food safety and alcohol service certifications to increase your eligibility for higher-paying Server positions.

Network Within Local Hospitality Circles

Attend local industry events and connect with current hospitality professionals in Franklin to learn about job openings and insider tips.

Employers can also learn top tips for hiring servers or waiters to attract the best candidates in a competitive market.

What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Franklin, TN in 2025 and Beyond?

The hospitality sector in Franklin, TN, is expected to grow steadily due to the area's increasing population and tourism.

Servers will remain in demand as new restaurants and dining venues continue to open, offering ample job opportunities through 2025 and beyond.

Economic and demographic trends also indicate a rising preference for dining out, further supporting the need for skilled Servers.

Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Franklin, TN?

At an estimated average of $20 per hour plus tips, a full-time Server can earn around $43,000 annually.

Considering Franklin's average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,200 monthly, along with utilities and groceries, a Server's salary supplemented by tips can support a modest, comfortable lifestyle.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Franklin, TN Server Jobs

We selected these restaurants based on their competitive wage rates and reputation for fair tipping.

• Location: Restaurants situated in popular or accessible areas of Franklin to ensure consistent customer traffic.
• Employee Benefits: Consideration given to venues known for good workplace environment and employee perks.
• Pay Structure: Inclusion of both base pay and tipping potential to reflect the true earning power for Servers.

This approach helps identify opportunities where Servers can maximize both income and job satisfaction.

For restaurant managers and owners interested in improving their hiring and staff retention strategies, the article on restaurant staff hiring provides valuable insights.