What Restaurants Do Servers Make the Most Money at in Jackson, MS?

Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Jackson, MS: Key Takeaways

• The average base wage for Servers in Jackson, MS is around $15.27 per hour, with top restaurants paying up to $17.36 per hour.
• Servers in this location can earn an additional $5-$15 per hour in tips, greatly increasing overall income potential.
• Restaurants like Olive Garden and Eudora's Mississippi Brasserie are among the highest-paying for servers in Jackson, MS.

Jackson, MS offers a range of opportunities for Servers with competitive wages and meaningful tip income.

This article details the best-paying restaurants in Jackson for Servers and breaks down salary expectations including tips.

For those interested in advancing their serving career, restaurant career paths for servers provide valuable insights to plan growth effectively.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Jackson, MS

Jackson boasts a mix of popular chain and local favorite restaurants, offering servers competitive pay and tip opportunities based on style and clientele.

Here are some of the best-paying spots for servers:

1. Olive Garden

Famous for its Italian-American cuisine and casual dining atmosphere, Olive Garden is highly regarded for fair wages and consistent busyness that boosts tips.

The chain’s established reputation translates into steady earning potential for servers.

2. Eudora's Mississippi Brasserie

This upscale bistro features Southern-inspired dishes with a refined touch.

Servers benefit from a higher base pay and tip pool given the restaurant’s exclusive local appeal and upscale environment.

3. Waffle House

A beloved Southern chain open 24/7, Waffle House is known for its casual vibe and loyal customer base.

Though base pay is moderate, the volume of customers can lead to solid tip earnings during peak hours.

4. Chili's

As a nationwide casual dining brand, Chili’s provides servers with modest wages complemented by dependable tips due to steady patronage.

The lively, family-friendly setting encourages frequent visits.

5. Hal and Mal's

A local favorite tavern and grill known for upscale pub fare and sports viewing, combining a chill environment with quality menu options.

Servers here receive competitive wages and a dependable tip flow from regular patrons.

To improve your chances of getting hired at such restaurants, review the how to become a server guide to understand necessary qualifications and career steps.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Jackson, MS

The type of restaurant greatly influences a server’s earning potential in Jackson.

Upscale, local gems and fine dining restaurants usually offer higher base wages and tips due to affluent clientele and slower table turnover.

Casual dining and chain restaurants typically offer moderate base pay with a wider range of tips, dependent on customer volume and shift popularity.

• Location: Servers working in central and high-traffic areas tend to receive more generous tips.
• Experience and Certifications: Advanced customer service skills and alcohol service certifications can boost wages.
• Shift Timing: Peak shifts like evenings and weekends often yield better tips compared to off-peak hours.

Employers looking to improve server retention may benefit from strategies detailed in strategies to reduce restaurant turnover.

How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Jackson, MS

Craft a Tailored Resume

Focus on highlighting relevant hospitality and customer service experience to appeal to top-tier restaurants.

For resume tips specific to servers, check out the server resume examples to create a compelling application.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice common server interview questions focusing on customer interaction and problem-solving skills to make a strong impression.

Also consider reviewing server interview questions to better anticipate employer inquiries.

Leverage Networking

Connect with current restaurant employees and use local hospitality groups to uncover openings with high-paying opportunities.

Obtain Certifications

Consider obtaining food safety and alcohol service certifications to enhance your skills and hiring attractiveness.

What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Jackson, MS in 2025 and Beyond?

Jackson is projected to see steady demand for servers through 2025, supported by a growing hospitality sector.

The expanding restaurant scene and return of dining out post-pandemic create new opportunities in casual and upscale eateries alike.

According to labor statistics, there is a modest growth rate expected for hospitality service roles in the area, including servers.

• More openings in family-friendly and chain restaurants.
• Increased competition for high-end venue positions.
• Potential for wage growth in niche and locally owned restaurants.

Employers thinking about upcoming hiring trends and competitive pay can find valuable advice in hospitality job trends for the holiday season.

Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Jackson, MS?

With an average base wage of approximately $15.27 per hour plus tips, a full-time server in Jackson can expect to earn about $33,000-$38,000 annually.

Jackson is known for a lower cost of living compared to national averages, which benefits servers:

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $850 per month
• Utilities and internet: $150 per month
• Groceries and dining out: $300–$450 per month

These costs align well with a server’s typical earnings, especially for those who capitalize on tip income and work peak shifts.

Servers wanting to maximize earnings and understand local tipping culture can explore average tipping percentages by state for more detail.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Jackson, MS Server Jobs

We selected restaurants based on their reputation for competitive wage offerings and tip potential, ensuring servers have opportunities to maximize income.

Additional factors we considered include:

• Location: Accessibility to downtown and high-traffic dining areas.
• Restaurant Type: Mix of casual and upscale venues to cover diverse earning possibilities.
• Work Environment: Positive reviews from staff regarding teamwork and benefits.

These elements point to jobs where servers can earn well while enjoying a good workplace culture.