The average hourly wage for Servers in Los Angeles is around $20 per hour. However, this figure only tells part of the story. Many Servers earn additional income through tips that can range from $5 to $15 per hour in casual dining environments and can reach $50 to $100 or more per hour in upscale, high-volume restaurants.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best restaurants in Los Angeles where Servers can maximize their earnings. We’ll also discuss how factors like restaurant type, location and your certification affect your pay — and offer tips on finding well-paying Server jobs in the city.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Los Angeles, CA- 1. Bestia
- 2. Spago Beverly Hills
- 3. Nobu Malibu
- 4. Catch LA
- 5. The Bazaar by José Andrés
- 6. République
- 7. The Nice Guy
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Los Angeles
- How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Los Angeles
- What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Los Angeles in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Los Angeles?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Los Angeles Server Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene where earning potential for Servers varies widely. From swanky fine dining to trendy bustling eateries, the right establishment can significantly boost your income through tips and competitive wages.
Below are some of the top restaurants where Servers consistently make the most money in LA:
1. Bestia
Located in the Arts District, Bestia is renowned for its Italian cuisine with a rustic, industrial vibe. Known for its high volume and top-tier clientele, Servers here benefit from generous tips and solid base pay.
2. Spago Beverly Hills
Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant is synonymous with upscale dining. With a celebrity following and premium menu prices, Servers at Spago enjoy impressive tip earnings alongside excellent wages.
3. Nobu Malibu
This oceanfront hotspot attracts celebrities and affluent diners alike. Servers earn well due to the high restaurant check averages and lavish guests, often receiving substantial tip payouts.
4. Catch LA
A trendy seafood and rooftop dining destination in West Hollywood, Catch LA draws a fashionable crowd. Its lively atmosphere and strong drink sales provide Servers with ample tips and excellent earning opportunities.
5. The Bazaar by José Andrés
Known for its experimental and avant-garde Spanish cuisine, The Bazaar combines fine dining with a vibrant bar scene. Servers often receive a mix of high hourly wages and lucrative tips from an enthusiastic clientele.
6. République
This French-inspired restaurant combines historic architecture with contemporary fare. Its popularity among locals and tourists results in busy shifts and strong tip potential for Servers.
7. The Nice Guy
A well-known celebrity hangout in West Hollywood, The Nice Guy offers an intimate setting with a stylish crowd. Servers here can expect high tips thanks to the exclusive vibe and upscale menu.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Los Angeles
The type of restaurant you work at profoundly influences your total earnings. Upscale and fine dining establishments not only tend to offer higher base wages but also attract patrons who tip more generously, raising your income substantially.
Casual or fast-casual restaurants may have lower base pay; however, there is often a steady flow of customers which can create consistent tipping opportunities. For example:
- In casual dining venues and casual hotel restaurants, Servers typically add $5 to $15 per hour through tips.
- At upscale restaurants in affluent neighborhoods, average tip earnings can range from $50 to $100+ per hour, reflecting higher check averages and clientele expectations.
Servers with relevant certifications — such as alcohol service permits or wine sommelier training — often access better positions and higher wages in prestigious establishments. Experience and skill level further amplify this effect.
How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Los Angeles
Research Target Areas and Venues
Focus your job search on neighborhoods known for upscale dining and affluent clientele, such as Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and Malibu. These areas have the highest earning potential for Servers due to higher tips and base pay.
Prepare a Standout Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight your experience in fine dining, cocktail knowledge and any certifications. Tailor your cover letter to demonstrate your understanding of the restaurant's brand and style, showing employers you are a fit for their high standards.
Network and Make Personal Connections
Attend industry mixers, visit restaurants in person during off-peak hours, and introduce yourself to Managers. Personal engagement helps you stand out from the many online applicants.
Practice Interview Skills
Anticipate questions about your previous service experience, knowledge of menus, handling difficult customers and ability to multitask under pressure. Demonstrating confidence and professionalism increases your chances of landing premium roles.
What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Los Angeles in 2025 and Beyond?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Server positions in Los Angeles are expected to grow steadily over the next several years. The city's vibrant tourism, entertainment industries and continued restaurant openings will keep demand high.
Growth factors include:
- Expansion of upscale dining and experiential restaurants
- Increased focus on customer service quality
- Growth in events and private dining, which require skilled Servers
For those skilled in fine dining service and hospitality, Los Angeles continues to offer lucrative and stable career opportunities in the service industry.
Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Los Angeles?
A Server in Los Angeles with an hourly wage around $20 and typical tip earnings totaling $10 to $50 additional per hour can expect to make between $62,400 and $140,000 annually, depending on the venue and hours worked.
However, LA is known for its high cost of living. Average monthly costs in 2025 include:
- Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in the city center: $2,400
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $150–$200
- Groceries for a single adult: $350–$500
- Transportation expenses: $100–$200
Servers working in top-tier establishments often earn enough to cover these expenses and still have disposable income, but those relying solely on base pay in casual venues may find it more challenging to live comfortably.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Los Angeles Server Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on multiple factors to ensure that the jobs we highlight have strong earning potential for Servers.
- Competitive Base Pay: Restaurants offering above-average hourly wages for Servers.
- Generous Tipping Environment: Establishments with proven high tip averages, often influenced by clientele and location.
- Reputation and Location: Well-known venues in affluent neighborhoods with consistent customer traffic.
- Good Work Environment: Positive reviews from staff about management and benefits where available.
These elements combine to make these restaurant jobs some of the best opportunities for Servers in Los Angeles.
