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

The average hourly wage for Servers in Memphis is approximately $14 per hour. However, the true earning potential often depends heavily on tips, which can range anywhere from an additional $5 to $15 per hour depending on the restaurant and shift. Servers in Memphis typically see more modest tip earnings compared to larger metropolitan areas but lucrative tipping opportunities exist at select venues.

This article will explore which restaurants in Memphis pay the highest wages and tips for Servers and explain how these earnings can fluctuate depending on factors such as location, restaurant type and service skill level. If you're looking to maximize your income as a Server in Memphis, keep reading to find out where the best-paying opportunities are.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Memphis, TN

Memphis offers a variety of dining options, from classic barbecue joints to upscale bistros, providing Servers a range of earning possibilities through base pay and tips. The restaurants listed below are known not only for their quality cuisine but also for being generous with tipping guests and offering competitive wages.

Consider these standout options:

1. Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar

Located in the Cooper-Young neighborhood, Flight Restaurant and Wine Bar is famous for its innovative small plates and extensive wine selection. Its upscale yet comfortable atmosphere attracts well-heeled diners, allowing Servers to earn solid tips in addition to a competitive hourly wage.

2. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

A Memphis staple known nationwide for its spicy fried chicken, Gus's offers Servers the chance for steady work and decent tips from locals and tourists alike. While more casual, high traffic during peak hours boosts Server earnings significantly.

3. Restaurant Iris

Housed in a historic 1920s building, Restaurant Iris features classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Its commitment to exceptional service and intimate setting provides Servers an opportunity to build strong relationships with guests who tip generously.

4. The Beauty Shop

The Beauty Shop combines eclectic decor with a unique menu inspired by Memphis history. Located in a formerly vintage beauty salon, its trendy vibe and vibrant crowds create a dynamic environment for Servers to maximize tips and hourly wages.

5. Leonard's Pit Barbecue

Known for its authentic Southern barbecue, Leonard's attracts devoted regulars and tourists alike. While more of a casual barbecue joint, popularity and frequent busy shifts often result in a solid supplemental income for Servers.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Memphis

The type of restaurant significantly affects what Servers can expect to earn. In Memphis, distinctions between upscale dining and casual establishments lead to varying wage structures and tipping opportunities.

Upscale Restaurants

Upscale restaurants typically offer a higher base pay, often ranging from $12 to $16 per hour, combined with substantial tip potential. These venues cater to customers who tend to leave more generous gratuities due to higher price points and premium services.

Casual and Barbecue Joints

Casual dining locations and barbecue spots usually pay lower hourly rates, sometimes closer to the local minimum wage. However, steady customer flow and frequent group visits can increase tips, often averaging an extra $5 to $10 per hour.

Certification and Experience

Servers with additional certifications, such as TIPS or alcohol handling permits, and those with fine dining experience tend to earn more due to their ability to serve complex menus and manage customer interactions effectively.

How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Memphis

• Research Local Hotspots: Focus on neighborhoods with vibrant dining scenes such as Cooper-Young, Downtown Memphis and Midtown where higher-end establishments attract wealthier clientele.
• Upgrade Your Skills: Seek certifications related to alcohol service and enhance your knowledge of upscale menus to increase your attractiveness to employers.
• Network in the Hospitality Community: Attend local job fairs and engage with Restaurant Managers on-site with polished resumes showcasing your relevant experience.
• Utilize Online Job Boards: Track openings regularly on reputable hospitality websites and apply promptly to increase your chances of securing top roles.
• Prepare for Interviews: Demonstrate professionalism, knowledge of the restaurant’s concept and friendliness in your demeanor to make a strong impression.

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

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local economic forecasts, the demand for Servers in Memphis is expected to remain stable, with modest growth projected over the next several years. The city's growing tourism industry and an expanding food scene contribute to steady job opportunities for Servers.

Memphis' unique position as a cultural hub continues to draw visitors and residents eager to enjoy local cuisine, supporting sustained demand for skilled hospitality workers. Seasonal fluctuations exist but overall job availability remains consistent for experienced Servers.

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

The average base pay of a Server in Memphis combined with typical tips can amount to an annual income between $25,000 and $35,000, depending on hours worked and venue. This compensation compares favorably when considering Memphis’ relatively low cost of living.

Key living expenses in Memphis (as of 2025 estimates) include:

• Average Rent (1-bedroom apartment): $950 per month
• Utilities (electricity, water, etc.): $150 per month
• Groceries: Around $300 to $400 per month
• Transportation: Many rely on cars with gas cost approximately $100 to $150 per month

For Servers who secure positions in higher-earning restaurants or work peak hours consistently, the income generally allows for comfortable living in Memphis while possibly saving or enjoying discretionary spending.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Memphis Server Jobs

We selected these Memphis restaurants based on thorough analysis of available job postings, employee reviews and local hospitality industry data to identify venues that offer competitive hourly wages with the potential for strong tipping.

Important factors considered included:

• Wage Competitiveness: Restaurants that pay above the city’s average base hourly rate for Servers
• Tip Potential: Venues known for high guest spending and consistent gratuities
• Reputation and Location: Popular dining spots in high-traffic and upscale neighborhoods
• Employee Benefits: Businesses offering schedules, training or incentives that support Server retention and satisfaction

Together, these criteria ensure that the listed jobs reflect some of the best opportunities for Servers looking to maximize their earnings in Memphis.