Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Minneapolis, MN: Key Takeaways
- Servers in Minneapolis typically earn between $26 and $48 per hour including tips, with some upscale restaurants offering the higher end of this range.
- Tips can add a substantial $10 to $20 or more per hour at premium steakhouses and upscale dining venues, significantly boosting overall earnings.
- Fogo de Chão Churrascaria and Blue Plate Restaurant Co. stand out as the highest paying restaurants for servers in Minneapolis.
The hourly wage for Servers in Minneapolis ranges widely depending on the restaurant, shift, and experience, but tips often account for a large portion of their income.
To better prepare for this role, reviewing common server interview questions can help candidates enhance their readiness and confidence.
This article explores which Minneapolis restaurants pay servers the most, breaking down hourly wages and tip potentials to provide a clear earnings picture.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis offers a diverse restaurant scene where server earnings correspond closely with the style and clientele of the venue.
Below are some of the best-known paying restaurants for server positions in the city:
Fogo de Chão Churrascaria
Fogo de Chão is a Brazilian steakhouse renowned for its continuous tableside service of grilled meats and vibrant dining experience.
Servers here earn an estimated $28 to $48 per hour, boosted by generous tipping at this upscale establishment.
Restaurant owners looking to optimize hiring can benefit from the top tips for hiring servers, ensuring skilled staff at places like Fogo de Chão.
Blue Plate Restaurant Co.
A popular local spot with a reputation for classic American cuisine and a welcoming ambiance, Blue Plate offers competitive pay for servers.
Hourly earnings including tips range from $27 to $45, reflecting steady patronage and a convivial environment.
Applebee's
This well-known casual dining chain in Minneapolis provides servers with a solid income base and the opportunity to earn tips.
Servers typically make between $27 and $45 per hour including tips, driven by a consistent customer flow.
Red Lobster
Famous for its seafood offerings and lively atmosphere, Red Lobster is a staple within the Minneapolis dining scene.
Servers at Red Lobster can expect about $26 to $44 per hour, reflecting the restaurant's busy environment and tipping culture.
The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is a high-end steakhouse known for its elegant ambiance and excellent service standards.
While the listed pay is $15.97 per hour plus tips, the notoriety of the restaurant means tips can be very lucrative, dramatically increasing total hourly compensation.
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The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings
The type of restaurant greatly influences how much a server can earn.
Upscale restaurants and steakhouses generally provide higher base wages and significantly greater tip potential, often between $15 and $50+ per hour in tipping alone.
Conversely, casual dining and chain restaurants may offer lower base rates but benefit from steady customer volume, with tips averaging around $5 to $15 per hour.
- Upscale and fine dining venues tend to attract clientele who tip more generously.
- Chain and casual restaurants provide more predictable shifts but usually lower tips.
- Possessing certifications like a food handler’s permit and excellent customer service skills can improve earning potential.
For individuals interested in advancing their skills and career as a server, the server training manual template offers valuable resources.
How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Minneapolis, MN
- Craft a strong cover letter highlighting your experience and customer service skills.
- Practice common interview questions to confidently demonstrate your readiness.
- Network within the hospitality industry by attending local job fairs and connecting with restaurant managers.
- Seek opportunities in upscale dining establishments known for better pay and tips.
Preparing for the hospitality job search can be aided by resources like the customer service interview guide, ensuring candidates present themselves well to employers.
What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Minneapolis, MN in 2025 and Beyond?
The hospitality industry in Minneapolis is projected to grow steadily, increasing demand for skilled servers in coming years.
As the city’s restaurant scene grows and diversifies, servers proficient in customer service and knowledgeable about menu offerings will find strong job prospects.
According to labor statistics, server roles are expected to see a stable job market, especially in popular dining districts downtown and near entertainment hubs.
Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Minneapolis, MN?
With an average hourly wage between $26 and $48 including tips, servers in Minneapolis can earn approximately $54,000 to $100,000 annually depending on hours and tips.
Living costs in Minneapolis are moderate with average rents around $1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Rent and utilities: Approximately $1,500 monthly
- Groceries and dining: Around $400 to $600 monthly
- Transportation: $80 for a monthly public transit pass
Servers earning well from tips in upscale restaurants commonly make enough to cover living expenses comfortably and enjoy the city's amenities.
Employers interested in creating attractive server job postings to attract qualified candidates can consult employer branding strategies for restaurant job postings.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Minneapolis, MN Server Jobs
Our selection focuses on restaurants with competitive wages and high tipping potential. Each establishment chosen is known for a healthy customer volume and positive work environment.
- Location: Central Minneapolis locations with high foot traffic to maximize tip opportunities.
- Reputation: Well-reviewed and established venues preferred for stability and earnings.
- Employee benefits and work culture: Considered to ensure overall job satisfaction beyond pay.
These factors combine to highlight the best places for servers looking to maximize their earnings and career satisfaction in Minneapolis.
