What Restaurants Do Servers Make the Most Money at in Tulsa, OK?

Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Tulsa, OK: Key Takeaways

• The average hourly wage for Servers in Tulsa, OK ranges from approximately $44 to $72, including base pay and tips.
• Tips can add a significant boost, with many servers earning an additional $10-$20 per hour in casual settings to potentially more in upscale venues.
• MI COCINA and Outback Steakhouse are among the top-paying restaurants for Servers in Tulsa.

The server position in Tulsa offers a solid wage combined with substantial tip potential. This article breaks down which restaurants pay the highest and what factors impact earnings.

Discover insights on salary components, top venues, and tips to maximize your Server income in Tulsa, OK.

For those looking for advice on how to enhance their service skills and stand out in interviews, our resume examples for servers guide can be very helpful.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Tulsa

Tulsa hosts a diverse culinary scene from casual steakhouses to specialty-themed eateries, providing many opportunities for servers to earn a lucrative income through pay and tips.

MI COCINA

MI COCINA is celebrated for its vibrant Mexican cuisine and festive atmosphere. Servers here benefit from generous tips due to the restaurant’s popularity and customer satisfaction.

Outback Steakhouse

Known nationwide for its hearty Australian-themed dishes and casual dining experience, Outback Steakhouse provides Servers in Tulsa strong base pay with steady tips.

Ted's Cafe Escondido

This local favorite offers Tex-Mex comfort food in a lively setting. Serving at Ted’s Cafe Escondido is attractive for those seeking a solid combination of wages and tips.

Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse is synonymous with hand-cut steaks and a fun, energetic environment. Servers are rewarded well here, particularly during busy shifts.

Red Lobster

Red Lobster offers seafood fans a casual yet upscale dining option, with Servers earning competitive pay enhanced by tips from its loyal customer base.

If you're considering a career as a server, explore our how to become a server page for detailed guidance on building your career.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings

The type of restaurant largely influences a Server’s earnings. Upscale or specialty venues tend to pay higher base wages and deliver larger tip pools compared to casual dining spots.

Factors such as location, customer demographics, and restaurant prestige can significantly affect tip amounts and job stability.

• Casual Restaurants and Chain Locations: Servers typically earn $10-$20 per hour in tips, supplementing a moderate base wage.
• Upscale and Fine Dining: Servers can make $30-$70 or more per hour from tips, reflecting the higher cost of dining and clientele generosity.
• Experience and Certifications: Certified food handlers or servers trained in wine and cocktail knowledge often have higher earning potential.

For servers interested in improving their wine and cocktail knowledge, check out our basic wine knowledge for servers spotlight to help boost tips and professionalism.

How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Tulsa

Build an Outstanding Resume

Highlight your experience, customer service skills, and any special certifications to stand out among applicants.

Network in the Local Industry

Attend restaurant events and engage with managers and current employees to discover openings and referrals.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice responses to common server interview questions emphasizing your ability to handle busy shifts and guest satisfaction.

See our detailed list of server interview questions to prepare and excel in your upcoming interviews.

Target Higher-End Restaurants

Focus your applications on restaurants known for generous tipping and strong customer bases to maximize income potential.

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

The hospitality sector in Tulsa is expected to experience steady growth, driven by tourism and local dining expansions.

Projections indicate increasing demand for Servers, especially in developing neighborhoods and upscale venues.

Experts suggest that:

• Job opportunities for Servers will increase moderately through the next several years.
• Upskilling and certifications will improve job prospects and earning potential.
• Competition may rise in popular areas, but experienced servers remain in demand.

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

A Server in Tulsa earning an average hourly rate between $44 and $72 (including tips) can expect an annual income ranging from approximately $91,520 to $149,760 based on full-time hours.

With Tulsa’s relatively low cost of living, including average rent near $900/month for a one-bedroom apartment and modest utilities and groceries costs, this income level supports a comfortable lifestyle.

• Average monthly rent (1-bedroom): $900
• Typical utilities and internet: $150
• Groceries and dining expenses: $300–$400

Employers looking for tips on restaurant staff hiring strategies can find valuable insights here.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tulsa Server Jobs

Our list focuses on restaurants that display a strong reputation for offering competitive pay and excellent tipping opportunities.

Location

Establishments near downtown Tulsa and busy shopping districts tend to generate higher guest volumes, benefiting Servers financially.

Restaurant Reputation

We chose venues known for positive customer experiences and consistent service quality, ensuring steady tipping.

Employee Benefits

Restaurants offering benefits such as flexible scheduling, health insurance options, or employee discounts make positions more attractive and financially viable.